SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON
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THE MINISTRY OF ANGEL
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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS
Lesson 1, for October 1, 1955
Angels Created Beings; Disaffection and Conflict
MEMORY VERSE:
"For
verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took
on Him the seed of Abraham." Heb.
2:16.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help; see "Index to the
Writings of Ellen G. White" on angels.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 11-14.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-10.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. The Family of God
1.
In heaven and in earth. Eph.
3:14, 15.
2.
Sons of God. Job 1:6; 1 John 3:1.
3.
The heavenly part of the family.
1 Tim. 5:21; Heb. 1:5.
III. Orders and Titles of Angels
1.
Cherubim and seraphim. Ezek.
10:19, 20; Isa. 6:2, 6.
2.
Specific names of angels. Jude 9;
Luke 1:19.
IV. Origin of Angels
1. Before creation of the world. Job
38:4-7.
2. Before death of any man. Gen. 3:24.
V. Lucifer and Evil Angels
1.
Exaltation and disaffection of Lu-
cifer. Isa. 14:12-14.
2.
War in heaven. Rev. 12:7-9.
3.
Reserved unto judgment. 2 Peter
2:4; Jude 6.
VI. Man in Conflict With the Powers
of Evil
1.
Woe unto inhabitants of earth.
Rev. 12:12.
2.
A powerful enemy. Eph. 6:11, 12.
3.
A more powerful deliverer. Luke
10:17-19.
4.
Ministering spirits for heirs of sal-
vation. Heb. 1:13, 14.
[3
]
THE LESSON
Introduction
With this lesson we begin a series of stud-
ies on a phase of Bible truth the under-
standing of which will become more and
more important as the days go by. As the
great controversy moves on to its final
stages, the interposition of superhuman
agencies in the affairs of men will become
increasingly apparent. To meet the issues
intelligently, we need a clear understanding
of the Scriptures dealing with the question
of angels, both good and bad. In this les-
son we deal with the primary facts involved
in a study of angels.
The Family of God
1.
By what term does the apostle
Paul show the close relationship that
exists between the inhabitants of
heaven and the inhabitants of earth?
Eph. 3:14, 15.
2.
By what name are the members
of this family called? Job 1:6; 1 John
3:1.
3.
In the heavenly family who are
mentioned along with the Father and
the Son? 1 Tim. 5:21; Heb. 1:5.
Orders and Titles of Angels
4.
Of what two orders of angels
are we informed? Ezek. 10:19, 20; Isa.
6:2, 6.
5.
What are some of the specific
names of angels? Jude 9; Luke 1:19.
NoTE.—Michael is called the Archangel.
"Michael
means, 'Who is
like
God,' and
hence is a fit title for Christ.
Gabriel
signi-
fies, 'The
strength
of God,' an appropriate
name for the angel or being who stands next
to Christ."—Bible
Readings for the Home,
1949 ed., p. 514.
Origin of Angels
6.
How far back can the existence
of angels be traced? Job 38:4-7.
NOTE.—"Before the creation of man, an-
gels were in existence; for when the foun-
dations of the earth were laid, 'the morning
stars sang together, and all the sons of God
shouted for
joy.'"—The Great Contro-
versy,
page 511.
7.
What other fact shows that an-
gels are not the spirits of men who
have died? Gen. 3:24.
Nora.—"Satan commenced his deception
in Eden. He said to Eve, 'Ye shall not
surely die.' This was Satan's first lesson
upon the immortality of the soul, and he
has carried on this deception from that
time to the present, and will carry it on
until the captivity of God's children shall
be turned. I was pointed to Adam and
Eve in Eden. They partook of the forbid-
den tree, and then the flaming sword was
placed around the tree of life, and they
were driven from the garden, lest they
should partake of the tree of life, and be
immortal sinners. The fruit of this tree
was to perpetuate immortality. I heard an
angel ask, 'Who of the family of Adam have
passed that flaming sword, and have par-
taken of the tree of life?' I heard another
angel answer, 'Not one of the family of
Adam has passed that flaming sword, and
partaken of that tree; therefore there is not
an immortal sinner.' The soul that sinneth,
it shall die an everlasting death—a death
from which there will be no hope of a resur-
rection; and then the wrath of God will
be appeased."—Early
Writings,
1945 Chris-
tian Home Library ed., p. 218.
[ 4 ]
I WILL BE LIKE
THE MOST HIGH.
111
REBELLION AGAINST
AGAINST
GOO
BEGINS WITH
SELF-EXALTATION.
Lucifer and Evil Angels
8.
With whom did disaffection
among the angels originate? Isa. 14:
12:14. Compare Ezek. 28:13, 14.
Nofx.—"Little by little, Lucifer came to
indulge the desire for self-exaltation. The
Scripture says: 'Thine heart was lifted up
because of thy beauty; thou hast corrupted
thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.'
`Thou hast said in thine heart, . . . I will
exalt my throne above the stars of God;
. . . I will be like the Most High.' Though
all his glory was from God, this mighty
angel came to regard it as pertaining to
himself. Not content with his position,
though honored above the heavenly host,
he ventured to covet homage due alone to
the Creator. Instead of seeking to make
God supreme in the affections and alle-
giance of all created beings, it was his en-
deavor to secure their service and loyalty
to himself. And coveting the glory with
which the infinite Father had invested His
Son, this prince of angels aspired to power
that was the prerogative of Christ alone."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 35:
9.
In what did this disaffection re-
sult? Rev. 12:7-9.
10.
Unto what have the evil angels
been reserved? 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6.
Man in Conflict With the
Powers of Evil
11.
Why is woe pronounced upon
the earth? Rev. 12:12.
12.
Against what strong influence
do God's children in this world have
to war? Eph. 6:11, 12.
Nom.—The American Revised Version
reads, "For our wrestling is not against
flesh and blood, but against the principal-
ities, against the powers, against the world
rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual
hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."
"The power and malice of Satan and his
host might justly alarm us, were it not that
we may find shelter and deliverance in the
superior power of our Redeemer. We care-
fully secure our houses with bolts and locks
to protect our property and our lives from
evil men; but we seldom think of the evil
angels who are constantly seeking access to
us, and against whose attacks we have, in
our own strength, no method of defense.
If permitted, they can distract our minds,
disorder and torment our bodies, destroy
our possessions and our lives. Their only
delight is in misery and destruction. Fear-
ful is the condition of those who resist the
divine claims, and yield to Satan's tempta-
tions, until God gives them up to the con-
trol of evil spirits. But those who follow
Christ are ever safe under His watchcare. -
Angels that excel in strength are sent from
heaven to protect them. The wicked one
cannot break through the guard which God
has stationed about His people."—The
Great Controversy,
page 517.
13.
What comforting promise is
given the child of God in this con-
flict? Luke 10:17-19.
14.
What aid may we have in our
warfare against the powers of dark-
ness? Heb. 1:13, 14.
[5]
Lesson 2, for October 8, 1955
Angels a Higher Order of Being Than Man
MEMORY VERSE:
"What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man,
that Thou
visitest
him? For Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels,
and hast crowned him with glory and honor." Ps.
8:4, 5.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General
survey
of
the
lesson.
Sunday: Introduction;
Ques.
1-3.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Tuesday:
Ques. 8-11.
Wednesday: Ques. 12-14.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
bath School Lesson Help.
Friday: General review of the
entire
lesson.
Lesson Outline:
1.
Introduction
II. The Creation and Dominion of Man,
and His Mortality
1.
Made in God's image. Gen. 1:26.
2.
Man's assigned dominion. Gen.
1:26-28; Ps. 8:6-8.
3.
Man's mortal state. Job 4:17;
Rom. 6:12.
III. Superiority of Angels
1.
Relative position of angels and men.
Ps. 8:4, 5.
2.
Gideon's fear in presence of an an-
gel. Judges 6:21-23.
3.
Daniel's attitude in presence of an-
gel Gabriel. Dan. 8:16, 17.
4.
Angels at the tomb of Christ.
Matt. 28:2-4.
IV. Natural and Spiritual Bodies
1.
Question concerning the resurrec-
tion. 1 Cor. 15:35.
2.
Celestial and terrestial bodies.
1 Cor. 15:36-41.
3.
The resurrection body. 1 Cor.
15:42-44.
4.
Christ's nature while on earth. Heb.
2:9, 16.
V. Will Men Ever Become Angels?
1.
Mortal puts on immortality. 1 Cor.
15:49-53.
2.
"Equal to angels" in one respect.
Luke 20:36.
3.
Man's final exaltation assured
through Christ. Heb. 2:9, 14, 18;
Phil. 3:21.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The majority of people have an entirely
wrong conception of the nature of both man
and angels. In this lesson we shall study a
few of the many passages of Scripture that
clarify this whole subject, even to the an-
swering of the question as to whether men
will ever be transformed into angels.
The Creation and Dominion
of Man, and His Mortality
1. In
whose image was man made?
Gen. 1:26.
NorE.-"Man was to bear God's image,
both in outward resemblance and in char-
E 6 ]
acter. Christ alone is 'the express image' of
the Father; but man was formed in the
likeness of God. His nature was in har-
mony with the will of God. His mind was
capable of comprehending divine things. His
affections were pure; his appetites and pas-
sions were under the control of reason. He
was holy and happy in bearing the image
of God, and in perfect obedience to His
will.
"As man came forth from the hand of his
Creator, he was of lofty stature and per-
fect symmetry. His countenance bore the
ruddy tint of health, and glowed with the
light of life and joy. Adam's height was
much greater than that of men who now
inhabit the earth. Eve was somewhat less
in stature; yet her form was noble, and full
of beauty. The sinless pair wore no arti-
ficial garments; they were clothed with a
covering of light and glory, such as the an-
gels wear. So long as they lived in obedience
to God, this robe of light continued to en-
shroud
them."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 45.
2.
What dominion was given to
man? Gen. 1:26-28; Ps. 8:6-8.
3.
What is man's nature declared
to be? Job 4:17; Rom. 6:12.
Superiority of Angels
4.
In God's creative plan how did
man compare with angels? Ps. 8:4, 5.
5.
How did the angel's presence af-
fect Gideon? Judges 6:21-23.
6.
What was Daniel's attitude in
the presence of Gabriel? Dan. 8:
16, 17.
7.
What effect did the presence of
an angel have upon the Roman guard
at the tomb of Christ? Matt. 28:2-4.
NOTE.—"Clothed with the panoply of
God, this angel left the heavenly courts. The
bright beams of God's glory went before
him, and illuminated his pathway. 'His
countenance was like lightning, and his rai-
ment white as snow: and for fear of him
the keepers did shake, and became as dead
men.'
"Now, priests and rulers, where is the
power of your guard? Brave soldiers that
have never been afraid of human power are
now as captives taken without sword or
spear. The face they look upon is not the
face of mortal warrior; it is the face of the
mightiest of the Lord's host."—The
Desire
of Ages,
pages 779, 780.
Natural and Spiritual Bodies
8.
What questions do some ask re-
garding the resurrection? 1 Cor.
15:35.
9.
What differences in bodies does
the apostle Paul call to our attention?
1 Cor. 15:36-41.
10.
What change of body comes
to man in the resurrection? 1 Cor.
15:42-44.
11.
When the Son of God was born
in Bethlehem, was He born with a
spiritual or a natural body? Heb. 2:
9, 16.
NorE.—When Jesus came into this world,
He came as a man. He did not take "the
nature of angels," but He took the nature
of "the seed of Abraham." Jesus, then, was
made for "a little while" lower than the
angels. Read carefully Hebrews 2:7, 9, 17,
noting marginal readings of the verses.
t7
"IN CHRIST THE FAMILY OF EARTH AND THE
FAMILY OF HEAVEN ARE BOUND TOGETHER.'
Will Men Ever Become Angels?
12.
What change of body will be
given to the righteous in the resurrec-
tion? 1 Cor. 15:49-53.
13.
In what respect will the re-
deemed be "equal unto the angels" af-
ter the resurrection? Luke 20:36.
NOTE.—"Let us not forget that the prom-
ise is never given to man that he will at
any time become an angel. We are assured,
however, that in one respect we shall be
made equal to the angels—we shall not be
subject to death. Of those who are ac-
counted worthy to have a part in the first
resurrection, Jesus Himself said, 'Neither
can they die any more: for they are equal
unto the angels.' Luke 20:36. At that long-
desired and triumphant day, the saved of
earth will be made 'equal unto the angels.'
Every longing of the heart will find com-
plete satisfaction. The fear of death will
be banished; and they will receive from
the hand of God, through faith in Jesus
Christ, the priceless gift of immortal life."
—I. H. Evans,
The Ministry of Angels,
1953
Christian Home Library ed., p. 45.
14.
Through whom is man's final
exaltation assured? Heb. 2:9, 14, 18;
Phil. 3:21.
NoTE.—"God has adopted human nature
in the person of His Son,
and has carried
the same into the highest heaven. It is the
`Son of man' who shares the throne of the
universe. It is the 'Son of man' whose name
shall be called, 'Wonderful, Counselor, The
mighty God, The everlasting Father, The
Prince of Peace.' Isa. 9:6. The I AM is the
Daysman between God and humanity, lay-
ing His hand upon both. He who is 'holy,
harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners,'
is not ashamed to call us brethren. Heb.
7:26; 2:11. In Christ the family of earth
and the family of heaven are bound to-
gether. Christ glorified is our brother.
Heaven is enshrined in humanity, and hu-
manity is enfolded in the bosom of Infinite
Love.
"Of His people God says, 'They shall be
as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an en-
sign upon His land. For how great is His
goodness, and how great is His beauty!'
Zech. 9:16, 17. The exaltation of the re-
deemed will be an eternal testimony to
God's mercy. 'In the ages to come,' He
will 'show the exceeding riches of His grace
in His kindness toward us through Christ
Jesus.' To the intent that . . . unto the
principalities and the powers in the heav-
enly places might be made known . . .
the manifold wisdom of God, according to
the eternal purpose which He purposed in
Christ Jesus our Lord.' Eph. 2:7; 3:10, 11,
R.V."—The Desire of Ages,
pages 25, 26.
If you are a Sabbath-school teacher, you will find the Teach-
er's Edition of the "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" a great
help because a full blank page is provided for each page of
printed lesson copy for recording answers and additional notes.
Order from your Book and Bible House.
[8
3
Lesson 3, for October 15, 1955
The Dominion of God and the Number and Glory
of His Messengers
MEMORY VERSE:
"Ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the city of the living
God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels."
Heb. 12:22.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of
the lesson.
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1, 2.
Monday: Ques. 3-5.
Tuesday: Ques. 6-8.
Wednesday: Ques. 9-12.
Thursday. Ques. 13-15. "Review and
Herald" Sabbath School Lesson
Help.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. God's Universal Kingdom
1.
Lord of heaven and earth. Acts
17:24.
2.
Vastness of His domain. Isa. 40:15,
17, 26.
III. God's Retinue of Couriers
1.
The Lord attended by 10,000 holy
ones. Deut. 33 :2.
2.
As revealed to Daniel. Dan. 7:9, 10.
3.
As revealed to John. Rev. 5:11.
IV. Angels Appear as Chariots of Fire
1.
Appeared at Elijah's translation.
2 Kings 2:11, 12.
2.
Revealed to Elisha's servant.
2 Kings 6:17.
3.
Composed of angels. Ps. 68:17.
V. Glory of the Angels
1.
Cherubim at gates of Eden. Gen.
3:24.
2.
Angel ascended in flame from Ma-
noah's altar. Judges 13:19-22.
3.
The angel who rolled away the
stone. Matt. 28:2-4.
4.
Daniel's description of angelic visi-
tor. Dan. 10:5, 6.
5.
The living creatures around the
throne of God. Ezek. 1:13, 14.
6.
The glory of the Archangel. Rev.
1:13-16.
7.
Our privilege to share His glory.
1 John 3:2.
THE LESSON
Introduction
God is the ruler of the universe, the Lord
of heaven and earth, the Creator and Sus-
tainer of unnumbered worlds. Over this
vast dominion He holds sway and com-
mands an innumerable host of angelic mes-
sengers. In our lesson today we catch a lit-
tle glimpse of this limitless dominion.
God's Universal Kingdom
1. To what great fact did Paul
point the Greeks? Acts 17:24.
91
2.
How is the vastness of God's
kingdom emphasized? Isa. 40:15, 17,
26.
NOTE.—"In this wonderful description we
obtain a glimpse of how this earth and its
people appear in the eyes of heaven. In
God's sight the earth is but as a grain of
sand, the waters He can measure in the
hollow of His hand, and all the inhabitants
of the earth are but as grasshoppers. Look-
ing up to the starry heavens, man can see
with the naked eye something of the mag-
nitude of God's creation. He beholds, and
marvels—but his unaided eye cannot num-
ber those glitterings suns. Now let him
bring to his aid the strongest telescope, and
again gaze at some chosen spot in the heav-
ens. What myriads of worlds, before un-
seen, are visible! Could he add to this
telescope still greater magnifying power,
there would be revealed still other worlds
—worlds that have been hidden from the
gaze of man during all the ages past. So
great is the immensity of space into which
we gaze, that man has never found the end.
By the aid of photography, stars otherwise
invisible have been distinguished; and as-
tronomers tell us there are 18,000,000 worlds
in a single system, and that the systems are
beyond counting."—I. H. Evans,
The Min-
istry of Angels,
pages 50, 51.
God's Retinue of Couriers
3.
How did Moses speak of the at-
tendant host at the giving of the
law? Deut. 33:2. Compare Acts 7:53.
NOTE.—"Speaking out of the thick dark-
ness that enshrouded Him, as He stood
upon the mount, surrounded by a retinue
of angels, the Lord made known His law.
Moses, describing the scene, says: The
Lord came from Sinai, and rose up from
Seir unto them; He shined forth from
Mount Paran, and He came with ten thou-
sands of saints; from His right hand went
a fiery law for
them.'"—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
pages 304, 305.
4.
How many angel ministers did
the prophet Daniel see before the
throne of God? Dan. 7:9, 10.
5.
What similar vision was shown
to the prophet John? Rev. 5:11.
NOTE.
"This language leaves us in a
state of uncertainty concerning the precise
number of the heavenly beings—`thousands
of thousands ministered unto Him, and ten
thousand times ten thousand stood before
Him.' We know that 'ten thousand times
ten thousand' equals one hundred million,
but we can form no idea of the number
represented by 'thousands of thousands.'
Nowhere in the word of God is given the
exact number of the heavenly beings."— I.
H. Evans,
The Ministry of Angels,
page 55.
Angels Appear as Chariots of Fire
6.
How are the chariot and horses
that took Elijah into heaven de-
scribed? 2 Kings 2:11, 12.
NOTE.—"Elijah had walked
,
with God.
His work had been painful and trying, for
the Lord through him had reproved the
sins of Israel. Elijah was a prophet of God;
yet he was compelled to flee from place to
place to save his life. His own nation
hunted him like a wild beast that they
might destroy him. But God translated
Elijah. Angels bore him in glory and tri-
umph to heaven."—Early
Writings,
page
162.
7.
What was the appearance of the
horses and chariots that the servant
saw about Elisha? 2 Kings 6:17.
8.
How does the psalmist define the
chariots of the Lord? Ps. 68:17. Com-
pare Ps. 104:4.
Glory of the Angels
9.
What is the first reference in the
Bible to the glory of angels? Gen.
3:24.
1107
10.
How did the angel that ap-
peared to Manoah reveal his glory?
Judges 13:19-22.
NOTE.—"I was shown that when God
sent His angels anciently to minister or
communicate to individuals, and these per-
sons learned that they had seen and talked
with an angel, they were struck with awe
and were afraid that they should die. They
had so exalted views of the terrible majesty
and power of God that they thought it
would destroy them to be brought into
close connection with one direct from His
holy presence. I was referred to Judges 13:
21, 22: 'Then Manoah knew that he was
an angel of the Lord. And Manoah said
unto his wife, We shall surely die, because
we have seen
God.'"—Testimonies, vol.
1,
p. 410.
11.
What was the appearance of
the angel who rolled back the stone
from the Saviour's tomb? Matt. 28:
2-4. Compare Luke 24:4, 5.
ing angels knew that the time for the re-
lease of God's dear Son, their loved Com-
mander, had nearly come. As they were
waiting with the deepest emotion the hour
of His triumph, a mighty angel came fly-
ing swiftly from heaven. His face was like
the lightning, and his garments white as
snow. His light dispersed the darkness from
his track and caused the evil angels, who
had triumphantly claimed the body of Je-
sus, to flee in terror from his brightness
and glory. One of the angelic host who
had witnessed the scene of Christ's humili-
ation, and was watching His resting place,
joined the angel from heaven, and together
they came down to the sepulcher. The
earth trembled and shook as they ap-
proached, and there was a great earth-
quake."—Early
Writings,
page 181.
12.
What description is given by
the prophet Daniel of the glory of an
angelic being? Dan. 10:5, 6.
13.
How does Ezekiel describe the
living creatures around the throne of
God? Ezek. 1:13, 14.
14.
How does the prophet John de-
scribe the glory of the Son of God?
Rev. 1:13-16.
NoTE.—The Son of God is the "Arch-
angel." See 1 Thessalonians 4:16. To no
other being is given this exalted title. The
glory of His presence surpasses that of the
angels.
15.
If faithful, what may we some-
day share in some degree? 1 John 3:2.
NOTE.—"As night drew on, soldiers were
stationed to guard the Saviour's resting
place, while angels, unseen, hovered above
the sacred spot. The night wore slowly
away, and while it was yet dark, the watch-
NOTE.—"Our Redeemer has opened the
way so that the most sinful, the most needy,
the most oppressed and despised, may find
access to the Father."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 113.
Lesson 4, for October 22, 1955
Power and Speed of the Angels
MEMORY VERSE:
"Bless the Lord, ye His angels, that excel in strength, that do His
commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word." Ps. 103:20.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 11-14.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-10.
' Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
Power of the Angels
1.
Excel in strength. Ps. 103:20.
2.
Illustrated in deliverance of Peter
from prison. Acts 5:17-19, 22, 23.
III. Example of Angelic Power Over
Armies of Assyria
1.
Defiance of Assyria. 2 Kings 19:
10-13.
2.
Hezekiah seeks God. 2 Kings 19:
14-19.
3.
Lord's message through prophet
Isaiah. 2 Kings 19:20-34.
4.
Destruction of Assyrian army.
2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chron. 32:21.
IV. Speed of the Angels
1.
Ezekiel's description of the swift-
ness of the angels' movements.
Ezek. 1:14.
2.
Daniel attests to swift flight of an-
gels. Dan. 9:21, last part.
3.
Jesus could immediately summon
legions of angels. Matt. 26:53.
V. Examples of Speedy Intervention
of Angels
1.
Daniel's prayer. Dan. 9:3, 4, 18, 19.
2.
The immediate response. Dan. 9:20,
21, 23.
3.
Peter's imprisonment arouses church
to prayer. Acts 12:4, 5.
4.
Angel intervention on eve of pro-
posed execution. Acts 12:6-9.
5.
Church surprised that their prayers
were so soon answered. Acts
12:11-16.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The power of the angels whom God sends
forth to minister to the heirs of salvation,
and the speed with which the angels can
come to our deliverance at the command of
God in the hour of crisis are facts that
should bring great assurance to the people
of God as we approach the time of trouble.
Power of the Angels
1. How does the psalmist refer to
the power of the angels? Ps. 103:20.
L
12]
2.
How is the power of angels il-
lustrated in the experience of Peter?
Acts 5:17-19, 22, 23.
Example of Angelic Power
Over Armies of Assyria
3.
With what words did Rab-
shakeh, leader of the Assyrian hosts,
taunt Hezekiah and defy heaven? 2
Kings 19:10-13.
4.
What did Hezekiah do when he
received the letter? 2 Kings 19:14-19.
5.
What was the message sent by
the Lord through Isaiah in answer to
Hezekiah's prayer? 2 Kings 19:20-34.
6.
That very night what did one
angel do? 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chron.
32:21.
NOTE.—"What a thrilling tale of deliver-
ance from captivity wrought by God
through the agency of an angel! Where,
now, is the boasting of that proud, blas-
phemous monarch, who defied the Lord of
heaven and said He was not able to de-
liver out of his hand? Before the Assyri-
ans can shoot an arrow or throw a javelin,
the God of heaven sends an angel to smite
their sleeping hosts. In a single night, one
hundred eighty-five thousand of Sennache-
rib's warriors are slain, not on the field of
battle, but by this silent messenger from
heaven.
"Was ever such victory won before in
the history of nations?—a whole army gone
down into the jaws of death, not in battle,
not on the field of campaign and strife, but
while they lay sleeping, dreaming per-
chance of the morrow, when they hoped
to scale the walls of Jerusalem and satisfy
their lust and appetite and greed in the
plunder and spoils of a conquered city.
From a study of this record, we must ad-
mit that the power of angels is limited only
by the work which God designs they shall
accomplish."—I. H. Evans,
The Ministry
of Angels,
page 73.
Speed of the Angels
7.
What description does Ezekiel
give of the swiftness of the movement
of angels? Ezek. 1:14.
NOTE.—Man has never attempted to
measure the velocity of anything traveling
faster than light. Light travels 186,000
miles a second—more than seven times
around the earth in one second of time.
Yet angels can travel faster than this.
Ezekiel wrote of their movement that they
"ran and returned as the appearance of a
flash of lightning." Men may move about
by train, automobile, or airplane at what
we consider an extremely high rate of
speed; but when we compare such move-
ment to that of an angel, it is as nothing.
Faster than the telegraph message, these
heavenly messengers speed on their errands
of ministry to man.
8.
How does Daniel speak of the
speed of an angel? Dan. 9:21, last
part.
9.
In what words did Jesus indicate
that legions of angels were at His im-
mediate command? Matt. 26:53.
Examples of Speedy Intervention
of Angels
10.
In his burden for the restora-
tion of Jerusalem what was Daniel
constrained to do? Dan. 9:3, 4, 18, 19.
NoTE.—This prayer in its entirety cannot
be considered a very long prayer. In con-
nection with what follows we should mark
[ 13 ]
`WE MAY HAVE HEAVEN'S HELP AT A
MOMENT'S CALL IF WE, LIKE DANIEL,
TRUST IN GOD
the comparative brevity of this prayer.
"Heaven was bending low to hear the
earnest supplication of the prophet. Even
before he had finished his plea for pardon
and restoration, the mighty Gabriel again
appeared to him, and called his attention
to the vision he had seen prior to the fall
of Babylon and the death of Belshazzar.
And then the angel outlined before him in
detail the period of the seventy weeks,
which was to begin at the time of 'the go-
ing forth of the commandment to restore
and to build Jerusalem.'
"—Prophets and
Kings,
page 556.
11. How does Daniel speak of the
immediacy of the response to his
prayer? Dan. 9:20, 21, 23.
NOTE.—"Here a messenger from heaven,
standing before the throne of God when
Daniel began to pray, was commanded to
come to the prophet, and to give him skill
and understanding concerning the revela-
tions of Jehovah. While the prayer was
still on his lips, before he had closed his
petition, a messenger from the throne of
God was at Daniel's side, announcing, 'At
the beginning of thy supplications the com-
mandment came forth, and I am come to
show thee.' Verse 23. Surely one could
not ask for a more speedy response to his
supplication than this."—I. H. Evans.
The
Ministry of Angels,
pages 82, 83.
14
12.
What did Peter's imprisonment
arouse the church to do? Acts 12:4, 5.
13.
On
the eve of Peter's proposed
execution what deliverance came to
him? Acts 12:6-9.
NOTE.—"With the prison doors securely
fastened, and a strong guard before them,
all chance of rescue or escape through hu-
man means was cut off. But man's extrem-
ity is God's opportunity.. .
"It is the last night before the proposed
execution. A mighty angel is sent from
heaven to rescue Peter. The strong gates
that shut in the saint of God open without
the aid of human hands. The angel of the
Most High passes through, and the gates
close noiselessly behind him. He enters the
cell, and there lies Peter, sleeping the peace-
ful sleep of perfect trust. . . . He feels the
touch of the angel's hand, and hears a voice
saying, 'Arise up quickly.' . . .
"They step over the guard, and reach the
heavily bolted door, which of its own ac-
cord swings open, and closes again imme-
diately, while the guards within and with-
out are motionless at their post.
"The second door, also guarded within
and without, is reached. It opens as did
the first, with no creaking of hinges or
rattling of iron bolts. They pass through,
and it closes again as noiselessly. In the
same way they pass through the third gate-
way, and find themselves in the open
street. No word is spoken; there is no
sound of footsteps. The angel glides on in
front, encircled by a light of dazzling bright-
ness, and Peter, bewildered, and still be-
lieving himself to be in a dream, follows his
deliverer. Thus they pass on through one
street, and then, the mission of the angel
being accomplished, he suddenly disap-
pears."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
146, 147.
14.
What surprise was expressed
by the church at prayer? Acts 12:
11-16.
NoTE.—Thus again the Lord demon-
strated the assurance that God is "a very
present help in trouble."
Lesson 5, for October 29, 1955
Guardian Angels
MEMORY VERSE:
, "He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all
thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot
against a stone." Ps. 91:11, 12.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-14.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sob-
Sunday: Introduction
;
Ques. 1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-11.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Angelic Protection
1.
"Their angels." Matt. 18:10.
2.
"Charge over thee." Ps. 91:11, 12.
3.
"Encampeth round about." Ps. 34:7.
III. Illustrated in Experiences of Job
and Elisha
1.
"My servant Job." Job 1:6-8.
2.
"An hedge about him." Job 1:9, 10.
3.
"Alas, my master ! how shall we
do?" 2 Kings 6:15.
4.
"The Lord opened the eyes of the
young man." 2 Kings 6:16, 17.
IV. Illustrated in the Experience
of Daniel
1.
Daniel accused. Dan. 6:10-13.
2.
The king's reluctant order. Dan.
6:14-17.
3.
The king's inquiry. Dan. 6:18-20.
4.
Daniel's deliverance. Dan. 6:21-23.
5.
Fate of Daniel's accusers.
V. In the Final Conflict
1.
Promise for time of trouble. Ps.
27:5.
2.
Saved out of time of Jacob's trou-
ble. Jer. 30:7.
THE LESSON
Introduction
One of the most comforting assurances
in the Bible is that every child of God has
the protection of heavenly angels. As we
study this lesson on guardian angels, may
we commit the keeping of our lives anew to
God's protecting care in a fuller apprecia-
tion of the fact that, "God's people, ex-
posed to the deceptive power and unsleep-
ing malice of the prince of darkness, and
in conflict with all the forces of evil, are
assured of the unceasing guardianship of
heavenly angels."-The
Great Controversy,
page 513.
Angelic Protection
1.
How is the personal interest of
angels in human beings expressed?
Matt. 18:10.
2.
What charge does God give His
angels concerning the care of His peo-
ple? Ps. 91:11, 12.
[ 151
"HEAVEN IS VERY NEAR THOSE WHO
SUFFER FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS' SAKE."
NOTE.
-"I have seen the tender love that
God has for His people, and it is very
great. I saw angels over the saints with
their wings spread about them. Each saint
had an attending angel. If the saints wept
through discouragement, or were in dan-
ger, the angels that ever attended them
would fly quickly upward to carry the tid-
ings, and the angels in the city would cease
to sing. Then Jesus would commission an-
other angel to descend to encourage, watch
over, and try to keep them from going out
of the narrow path; but if they did not
take heed to the watchful care of these
angels, and would not be comforted by
them, but continued to go astray, the an-
gels would look sad and weep. They would
bear the tidings upward, and all the angels
in the city would weep, and then with a
loud voice say, 'Amen.' But if the saints
fixed their eyes upon the prize before them
and glorified God by praising Him, then
the angels would bear the glad tidings to
the city, and the angels in the city would
touch their golden harps and sing with a
loud voice, 'Alleluia!' and the heavenly
arches would ring with their lovely songs."
—Early Writings,
page 39.
3. What comforting assurance is
given to those who fear God? Ps. 34:7.
:NOTE.—"
'The angel of the Lord encamp-
eth round about them that fear Him, and
delivereth them.' God commissions His
angels to save His chosen ones from calam-
ity, to guard them from 'the pestilence
that walketh in darkness,' and 'the destruc-
tion that wasteth at noonday.' Again and
again have angels talked with men as a
man speaketh with a friend, and led them
to places of security. Again and again
have the encouraging words of angels re-
newed the drooping spirits of the faithful,
and carrying their minds above the things
of earth, caused them to behold by faith
the white robes, the crowns, the palm
branches of victory, which overcomers will
receive when they surround the great white
throne."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
153.
Illustrated in Experiences of
Job and Elisha
4.
What question did God once ask
Satan regarding Job? Job 1:6-8.
5.
How did Satan complain of the
protection about Job? Job 1:9, 10.
6.
In time of peril how did Elisha's
servant express his alarm? 2 Kings
6:15.
7.
How were his fears allayed? 2
Kings 6:16, 17.
Illustrated in the Experience
of Daniel
8.
What accusation was brought
against Daniel? Dan. 6:10-13.
9.
What order did the king reluc-
tantly give? Dan. 6:14-17.
[ 16 ]
NotE.—"God did not prevent Daniel's
enemies from casting him into the lions'
den; He permitted evil angels and wicked
men thus far to accomplish their purpose;
but it was that He might make the deliver-
ance of His servant more marked, and the
defeat of the enemies of truth and right-
eousness more complete. 'Surely the wrath
of man shall praise Thee,' the psalmist has
testified. Through the courage of this one
man who chose to follow right rather than
policy, Satan was to be defeated, and the
name of God was to be exalted and
hon-
ored."—Prophets and Kings,
pages 543, 544.
10.
After a wakeful night, what
concern did the king manifest? Dan.
6:18-20.
11.
What was Daniel's reassuring
reply to the king's inquiry? Dan. 6:
21-23.
NoTE.—"From the story of Daniel's de-
liverance, we may learn that in seasons of
trial and gloom, God's children should be
just what they were when their prospects
were bright with hope and their surround-
ings all that they could desire. Daniel in
the lions' den was the same Daniel who
stood before the king as chief among the
ministers of state and as a prophet of the
Most High. A man whose heart is stayed
upon God will be the same in the hour of
his greatest trial as he is in prosperity,
when the light and favor of God and of
man beam upon him. Faith reaches to the
unseen, and grasps eternal realities.
"Heaven is very near those who suffer
for righteousness' sake. Christ identifies His
interests with the interests of His faithful
people; He suffers in the person of His
saints; and whoever touches His chosen
ones touches Him. The power that is near
to deliver from physical harm or distress is
also near to save from the greater evil,
making it possible for the servant of God to
maintain his integrity undet all circum-
stances, and to triumph through divine
grace."—Prophets and Kings,
page 545.
12.
Whose lives did the angels not
guard? Dan. 6:24.
In the Final Conflict
13.
In the final conflict what extra
provision will be made for the protec-
tion of God's people? Ps. 27:5.
NOTE.—"Said the angel, 'List ye!' Soon
I heard a voice like many musical instru-
ments all sounding in perfect strains, sweet
and harmonious. It surpassed any music I
had ever heard, seeming to be full of mercy,
compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It
thrilled through my whole being. Said the
angel, 'Look ye!' My attention was then
turned to the company I had seen, who
were mightily shaken. I was shown those
whom I had before seen weeping and pray-
ing in agony of spirit. The company of
guardian angels around them had been
doubled, and they were clothed with an
armor from their head to their feet. They
moved in exact order, like a company of
soldiers. Their countenances expressed the
severe conflict which they had endured, the
agonizing struggle they had passed through.
Yet their features, marked with severe in-
ternal anguish, now shone with the light
and glory of heaven. They had obtained
the victory, and it called forth from them
the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy."
—Early Writings,
pages 270, 271.
14.
On what promise should the
child of God rest in that hour of trou-
ble? Jer. 30:7.
NOTE.—"The people of God will then be
plunged into those scenes of affliction and
distress described by the prophet as the
time of Jacob's trouble. 'Thus saith the
Lord: We have heard a voice of trembling,
of fear, and not of peace. . . . All faces
are turned into paleness. Alas! for that
day is great, so that none is like it: it is
even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he
shall be saved out of it.'
"—The Great Con-
troversy,
page 616.
[ 17 ]
Lesson 6, for November 5, 1955
Angels and the Judgment
MEMORY VERSE:
"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and
the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written
before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name."
Mal. 3:16.
STUDY HELPS:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help; "Index to the
Writings of Ellen G. White" on Books of record in heaven.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of
the lesson.
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
Monday: Ques. 4-8.
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12.
Wednesday: Read from Ellen G. White
on Books of record in heaven.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
bath School Lesson Help.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I.
Introduction
II. The Judgment
1.
An appointed time for judgment.
Acts 17:31.
2.
Universality of the judgment. 2 Cor.
5:10.
3.
Judgment scene described. Dan.
7:9, 10.
III. Life's Records Consulted
1.
"In Thy book." Ps. 56:8.
2.
"The books were opened." Rev.
20:11-15.
3.
"Book of remembrance." Mal.
3:16, 17.
IV. Detailed Record Kept of Our Lives
1.
\Vords taken into account. Matt.
12:36, 37.
2.
Even motives reviewed. 1 Cor. 4:5.
3.
"Every secret thing." Eccl. 12:14.
V. The Angel Witnesses
1.
"Before the angel." Eccl. 5:6.
2.
Names confessed before the angels.
Rev. 3:5.
3.
Deliverance of those written in the
book. Dan. 12:1; Rev. 21)27.
THE LESSON
"How solemn is the thought! Day after
day, passing into eternity, bears its burden
of records for the books of heaven. Words
once spoken, deeds once done, can never be
recalled. Angels have registered both the
good and the evil. The mightiest conqueror
upon the earth cannot call back the record
of even a single day. Our acts, our words,
even our most secret motives, all have their
weight in deciding our destiny for weal or
woe. Though they may be forgotten by
us, they will bear their testimony to justify
or to condemn."—The
Great Controversy,
pages 486, 487.
[ 18
3
Introduction
One of the outstanding teachings of the
Bible is that all men must face a final hour
of judgment. Along with this is also several
references to the book of records from
which man will be judged. The question
might be raised, "Who has kept the records
of men's lives?" While there is no direct
statement in the Bible that angels are the
divine recorders, there are indications that
this is so. There are numerous references
in the spirit of prophecy to this effect such
as the following:
WORDS AND ACI7ONS AND M077VOS ARZ RZCOROff0
mina
BOOKS OF HEAVEN.
The Judgment
1.
For what event has God ap-
pointed a time? Acts 17:31.
2.
How many must appear before
the judgment bar? 2 Cor. 5:10.
3.
What description of the judg-
ment is given by Daniel? Dan. 7:9, 10.
NOTE.—"Thus was presented to the proph-
et's vision the great and solemn day when
the characters and the lives of men should
pass in review before the Judge of all the
earth, and to every man should be ren-
dered 'according to his works.' The An-
cient of Days is God the Father. Says the
psalmist, 'Before the 'mountains were
brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed
the earth and the world, even from ever-
lasting to everlasting, Thou art God.' It is
He, the source of all being, and the foun-
tain of all law, that is to preside in the
judgment. And holy angels, as ministers
and witnesses, in number 'ten thousand
times ten thousand, and thousands of thou-
sands,' attend this great tribunal."—The
Great Controversy,
page 479.
Life's Records Consulted
4.
Where did the psalmist indicate
that his life record was kept? Ps. 56:8.
5.
When all men finally stand be-
fore the "great white throne," what
records will be opened? Rev. 20:
11-15.
NOTE.---"You
who are slighting the offers
of mercy, think of the long array of figures
accumulating against you in the books of
heaven; for there is a record kept of the
impieties of nations, of families, of indi-
viduals. God may bear long while the ac-
count goes on, and calls to repentance and
offers of pardon may be given; yet a time
will come when the account will be full;
when the soul's decision has been made;
when by his own choice, man's destiny has
been fixed. Then the signal will be given
for judgment to be
executed."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 165.
6.
For whom is a book of remem-
brance kept? Mal. 3:16, 17.
NoTE.—" 'A book of remembrance' is
written before God, in which are recorded
the good deeds of 'them that feared the
Lord, and that thought upon His name.'
Their words of faith, their acts of love, are
registered in heaven. Nehemiah refers to
this when he says, 'Remember me, 0 my
God, . . . and wipe not out my good deeds
that I have done for the house of my God.'
In the book of God's remembrance every
deed of righteousness is immortalized.
There every temptation resisted, every evil
overcome, every word of tender pity ex-
pressed, is faithfully chronicled. And every
act of sacrifice, every suffering and sorrow
endured for Christ's sake, is recorded. Says
the psalmist, 'Thou tellest my wanderings:
put Thou my tears into Thy bottle: are
they not in Thy book?'
"—The Great Con-
troversy,
page 481.
[19
]
Detailed Record Kept of Our Lives
7.
What is taken into account in
the judgment? Matt. 12:36, 37.
NOTE.—"Some talk too much; they stand
in this position: 'Report, . . . and we will
report it.' Miserable indeed is such a po-
sition ! If all these gossipers would ever
bear in mind that an angel is following
them, recording their words, there would
be less talking and much more praying."—
Testimonies,
vol. 4, p. 40.
"You all have an influence for good or
for evil on the minds and characters of
others. And just the influence which you
exert is written in the book of records in
heaven. An angel is attending you and
taking record of your words and actions..
When you rise in the morning, do you feel
your helplessness and your need of strength
from God? and do you humbly, heartily
make known your wants to your heavenly
Father? If so, angels mark your prayers,
and if these prayers have not gone forth
out of feigned lips, when you are in danger
of unconsciously doing wrong and exerting
an influence which will lead others to do
wrong, your guardian angel will be by your
side, prompting you to a better course,
choosing your words for you, and influ-
encing your
actions."—Testimonies,
vol. 3,
pp. 363, 364.
8.
How inclusive is this record? 1
Cor. 4:5.
NoTE.—"Words and actions and motives
are recorded; but how little do these light,
superficial heads and hard hearts realize
that an angel of God stands writing down
the manner in which their precious mo-
ments are employed. God will bring to
light every word and every action. He is
in every place. His messengers, although
unseen, are visitors in the workroom and in
the sleeping apartment. The hidden works
of darkness will be brought to light. The
thoughts, the intents and purposes of the
heart, will stand revealed. All things are
naked and open to the eyes of Him with
whom we have to
do."—Testimonies,
vol.
4,
pp.
589, 590.
9.
What shows that the secrets of
our lives are registered in heaven?
Eccl. 12:14.
NoTE.—"Opposite each name in the books
of heaven is entered, with terrible exactness,
every wrong word, every selfish act, every
unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with
every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warn-
ings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments,
unimproved opportunities, the influence ex-
erted for good or for evil, with its far-
reaching results, all are chronicled by the
recording angel."—The
Great Controversy,
page 482.
The Angel Witnesses
10.
What witness is there of our
actions and words? Eccl. 5:6.
NoTE.—"I was shown that the recording
angel makes a faithful record of every of-
fering dedicated to God and put into the
treasury, and also of the final result of the
means thus bestowed. The eye of God takes
cognizance of every farthing devoted to
His cause, and of the willingness or reluc-
tance of the giver. The motive in giving is
also chronicled. Those self-sacrificing, con-
secrated ones who render back to God the
things that are His, as He requires of them,
will be rewarded according to their works.
Even though the means thus consecrated
be misapplied, so that it does not accom-
plish the object which the donor had in
view,—the glory of God and the salvation
of souls,—those who made the sacrifice
in sincerity of soul, with an eye single to
the glory of God, will not lose their re-
ward."—Testimonies,
vol. 2, pp. 518, 519.
11.
What precious promise is made
to the overcomer? Rev. 3:5.
12.
Who are promised deliverance
in the time of trouble? Dan. 12:1;
Rev. 21:27.
[
20]
Lesson 7, for November 12, 1955
Angels Agents in Divine Revelation
MEMORY VERSE:
"He said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the
Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show unto His servants the
things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that
keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." Rev. 22:6, 7.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-15.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-8.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Prophetic Messengers
1.
Secrets revealed to prophets. Amos
3:7.
2.
An angel enlightens Daniel. Dan.
8:15-19.
3.
An angel signifies revelation to
John. Rev. 1:1.
III. Gabriel the Chief Messenger
of the Lord
1.
Gabriel sent to Daniel. Dan. 9:
21, 22.
2.
His honored position. Dan. 10:21.
3.
The one who stands in presence of
God. Luke 1:19.
4.
"Thy fellow servant, and of thy
brethren the prophets." Rev. 22:
6, 8, 9.
IV.
Prophecy of Zechariah Example
of Instruction by an Angel
1.
An angel explains vision of red
horse. Zech. 1:7-14.
2. Joshua and the angel. Zech.
3:1-7.
3. An angel interprets vision of can-
dlestick and olive trees. Zech.
4:1-14.
V.
Other Instances of Angelic
Instruction
1.
To Abraham. Gen. 22:11, 12, 15-18.
2.
To Gideon. Judges 6:11, 12.
3.
To Zacharias. Luke 1:11-18.
4.
To Mary. Luke 1:26-35.
5.
To the shepherds. Luke 2:8-15.
THE LESSON
Introduction
One of the functions of the angels is to
reveal God's will to men. "Adam, in his
innocence, had enjoyed open communion
with his Maker; but sin brought separation
between God and man. . . . Man was . . .
cut off from direct approach to his Creator,
but God would communicate with him
through Christ and
angels."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 67. In this lesson we
will study about angels as God's messengers.
[21]
Prophetic Messengers
1.
To whom does God reveal His
secrets? Amos 3:7.
2.
What agency did God use in en-
lightening the prophet Daniel? Dan.
8:15-19.
3.
What part did an angel serve in
making plain God's message to John?
Rev. 1:1.
NOTE.—"In the past, God has revealed to
man many of His plans and purposes.
Again and again, in different ages, He has
spoken to men in various ways, through
His Holy Spirit, by vision, and by sending
angels to bring His messages to those
through whom He would reveal His will.
Almost from the earliest records of God's
dealings with His chosen people, to the clos-
ing book in the Bible, we find that God has
repeatedly spoken to His prophets and His
people through the agency of angels."—I.
H. Evans,
The Ministry of Angels,
page 127.
Gabriel the Chief Messenger
of the Lord
4.
By what name was the angel
sent to Daniel identified? Dan. 9:
21, 22.
NOTE.—"It was Gabriel, the angel next
in rank to the Son of God, who came with
the divine message to Daniel. It was Ga-
briel, 'His angel,' whom Christ sent to open
the future to the beloved John; and a bless-
ing is pronounced on those who read and
hear the words of the prophecy, and keep
the things written therein. Rev. 1:3."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 234.
6A131ZIEL BROUGHT THE WONDERFUL ,
ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE
SON Of
GOD
TO A HUMBLE MAIDEN.
5.
How did Gabriel indicate his
honored position? Dan. 10:21.
6.
In his announcement to Zacha-
rias how did Gabriel reveal his rela-
tion to God? Luke 1:19.
7.
How did the angel who ap-
peared to John refer to himself? Rev.
22:6, 8, 9.
NOTE.—"Christ sent and made known the
Revelation to John by 'His angel.' A par-
ticular angel seems here to be brought to
view. What angel could appropriately be
called Christ's angel? May we not find an
answer to this question in a significant pass-
age in the prophecy of Daniel? In Daniel
10:21, an angel, which was doubtless Ga-
briel (see Daniel, chapters 9, 10, and 11:1),
in making known some important truths to
Daniel, said, 'There is none that holdeth
with me in these things, but Michael your
prince.' Who Michael is we easily learn.
Jude (verse 9) calls him the 'Archangel.'
And Paul tells us that when the Lord de-
scends from heaven, and the dead in Christ
are raised, the voice of the Archangel shall
[22]
be heard. 1 Thess. 4:16. And whose voice
will be heard at that amazing hour when
the dead are called to life? The Lord Him-
self replies, 'Marvel not at this; for the
hour is coming in the which all that are in
the graves shall hear
His voice'
(John 5:
28) ; and the previous verse shows that the
one here referred to, whose voice will then
be heard, is the Son of man, or
Christ.
It is
the voice of Christ, then, that calls the dead
from their graves. That voice, Paul de-
clares, is the voice of the Archangel; and
Jude says that the Archangel is called Mi-
chael, the very personage mentioned in
Daniel, and all referring to Christ. The
statement in Daniel, then, is, that the truths
to be revealed to Daniel were committed to
Christ, and confined exclusively to Him, and
to an angel whose name was Gabriel. Simi-
lar to the work of communicating impor-
tant truth to the 'beloved prophet' is the
work of Christ in the Revelation of com-
municating important truth to the 'be-
loved disciple;' and who, in this work, can
be
His
angel but he who was engaged with
Him in the former work, that is, the angel
Gabriel?"—Daniel
and the Revelation,
1918
ed., pp. 353, 354. See pages 340, 341 in
The
Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation.
Prophecy of Zechariah Example
of Instruction by an Angel
8. Who came to explain to Zecha-
riah his vision of the red horse and his
rider? Zech. 1:7-14.
NOTE.—"Zechariah had a series of vi-
sions regarding the work of God in the
earth. These messages, given in the form
of parables and symbols, came at a time of
great uncertainty and anxiety, and were of
peculiar significance to the men who were
advancing in the name of the God of Israel.
. . . 'And the Lord answered the angel that
talked with me,' Zechariah declared, 'with
good words and comfortable words.
" 'So the angel that communed with me
said unto me, Cry thou, saying, Thus saith
the Lord of hosts; I am jealous for Jerusa-
lem and for Zion with a great jealousy.
And I am very sore displeased with the
heathen that are at ease: for I was but a
little displeased, and they helped forward
the affliction. Therefore thus saith the
Lord; I am returned to Jerusalem with
mercies: My house shall be built in it, . . .
and a line shall be stretched forth upon
Jerusalem.'
"—Prophets and Kings,
page
580.
9.
What comforting message did
the angel bring to the accused Joshua?
Zech. 3:1-7.
10.
What interpretation did the an-
gel give to the vision of the candle-
sticks and olive trees? Zech. 4:1-14.
Other Instances of Angelic
Instruction
11.
In what direct way does God
sometimes communicate with man?
Gen. 22:11, 12, 15-18.
12.
How did God once reveal His
purpose to Gideon? Judges 6:11, 12.
13.
Who appeared unto the priest
Zacharias, and what message did he
deliver? Luke 1:11-18.
14.
What did this special heavenly
messenger announce to Mary? Luke
1:26-35.
15.
What medium did heaven use
in bringing glad tidings to the shep-
herds? Luke 2:8-15.
[ 23 ]
Lesson 8, for November 19, 1955
Angel Ministry to Men
MEMORY VERSE:
"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have
entertained angels unawares." Heb. 13:2.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of
the lesson.
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-4.
Monday: Ques. 5-8.
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12.
Wednesday: Ques. 13-15.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
bath School Lesson Help.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Abraham's Heavenly Visitors
-
1. Abraham's reception of three
strangers. Gen. 18:1-8.
2.
Previous promise of posterity. Gen.
15:5; 17:1-8.
3.
Promise to be realized through
Sarah. Gen. 18:9-15.
4.
Mission of messengers to Sodom.
Gen. 18:16-22.
III. Angels Visit Sodom
1.
Lot welcomes angel visitors. Gen.
19:1-3, 5, first part.
2.
Supernatural power of Lot's guests.
Gen. 19:9-11.
3.
Warning of destruction. Gen.
19:12-14.
4.
Deliverance of Lot's immediate
family. Gen. 19:15-17.
5.
As a result of Abraham's interces-
sion. Gen. 18:23-32; 19:29.
IV. An Angel Comforts Hagar
1.
Angel questions Hagar. Gen. 16':6-8.
2.
The angel's message to Hagar. Gen.
16:9-13.
3.
Hagar again in distress. Gen. 21:
14-16.
4.
God again provides angel ministry
for Hagar. Gen. 21:17-19.
V. An Angel Intervenes in Abra-
ham's Supreme Test
1.
Abraham's great test of faith. Gen.
22:2, 9.
2.
An angel stays Abraham's hand.
Gen. 22:10-12.
THE LESSON
Introduction
One of the most important functions of
the angels is their ministry to man. "We
need to understand better than we do the
mission of the angel visitants. It would be
well to consider that in all our work we
have the co-operation and care of heavenly
beings. Invisible armies of light and power
attend the meek and lowly ones who believe
and claim the promises of God. Cherubim
and seraphim and angels that excel in
strength,-ten thousand times ten thou-
sand and thousands of thousands,-stand
at His right hand, 'all ministering spirits,
sent forth to minister for them who shall
be heirs of salvation.'
"-Christ's Object
Lessons,
page 176.
[ 24 ]
Abraham's Heavenly Visitors
1.
Who were the "three men" en-
tertained by Abraham in the plains of
Mamre? Gen. 18:1-8. Compare Gen.
19:1.
NOTE.—"God conferred great honor upon
Abraham. Angels of heaven walked and
talked with him as friend with friend. When
judgments were about to be visited upon
Sodom, the fact was not hidden from him,
and he became an intercessor with God for
sinners. His interview with the angels pre-
sents also a beautiful example of hospital-
ity."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 138.
2.
What promise had previously
been made to Abraham regarding his
posterity? Gen. 15:5; 17:1-8.
3.
How did the Lord at this time
tell Abraham the promise concerning
his seed was to be fulfilled? Gen. 18:
9-15.
4.
What was the mission of the an-
gels to Sodom and neighboring cities?
Gen. 18:16-22.
Angels Visit Sodom
5.
Although referred to as "an-
gels," what indicates that the identity
of these visitors to Sodom was con-
cealed? Gen. 19:1-3, 5, first part.
NOTE.—"In the twilight, two strangers
drew near to the city gate. They were ap-
parently travelers coming in to tarry for
the night. None could discern in those hum-
ble wayfarers the mighty heralds of divine
judgment, and little dreamed the gay, care-
less multitude that in their treatment of
these heavenly messengers that very night
they would reach the climax of the guilt
which doomed their proud city. But there
was one man who manifested kindly at-
tention toward the strangers, and invited
them to his home. Lot did not know their
true character, but politeness and hospital-
ity were habitual with him; they were a
part of his religion,—lessons that he had
learned from the example of Abraham. Had
he not cultivated a spirit of courtesy, he
might have been left to perish with the rest
of Sodom. Many a household, in closing its
doors against a stranger, has shut out God's
messenger, who would have brought bless-
ing and hope and
peace."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 158.
6.
In what way was the real char-
acter of Lot's guest revealed? Gen.
19:9-11.
7.
What did the angels then tell
Lot regarding the object of their visit?
Gen. 19:12-14.
8.
While these angels had been
sent to destroy the wicked inhabitants,
what was their work in behalf of Lot
and his family? Gen. 19:15-17.
9.
Who had especially intervened
for Lot and his family? Gen. 18:23-32;
19:29.
NOTE.—"Though Lot had become a
dweller in Sodom, he did not partake in the
iniquity of its inhabitants. Abraham
thought that in that populous city there
must be other worshipers of the true God.
And in view of this he pleaded, 'That be
far from Thee, to do after this manner,
to
slay the righteous with the wicked; . . .
that be far from Thee. Shall not the
Judge of all the earth do right?' Abra-
ham asked not once merely, but many
times. Waxing bolder as his requests were
granted, he continued until he gained the
assurance that if even ten righteous persons
[25
]
m
N
u
EAVENLY MESSENGERS
Y
ti
r FROM O
UR
SAVE
OWN
WILLFUL,
WAYS.
could be found in it, the city would be
spared.
"Love for perishing souls inspired Abra-
ham's prayer. While he loathed the sins of
that corrupt city, he desired that the sin-
ners might be saved. His deep interest for
Sodom shows the anxiety that we should
feel for the impenitent. We should cherish
hatred of sin, but pity and love for the
sinner. All around us are souls going down
to ruin as hopeless, as terrible, as that
which befell
Sodom."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
pages 139, 140.
An Angel Comforts Hagar
10.
When Hagar fled from her mis-
tress, who found her in the wilder-
ness? Gen. 16:6-8.
11.
What message did the angel
give to her? Gen. 16:9-13.
NoTE.—"She made her way to the desert,
and as she rested beside a fountain, lonely
and friendless, an angel of the Lord, in hu-
man form, appeared to her. Addressing her
as 'Hagar, Sarai's maid,' to remind her of
her position and her duty, he bade her, 'Re-
turn to thy mistress, and submit thyself
under her hands.' Yet with the reproof
there were mingled words of comfort. 'The
Lord hath heard thy affliction.' I will mul-
tiply thy seed exceedingly, that it shall not
be numbered for multitude.' And as a per-
petual reminder of his mercy, she was hid-
den to call her child Ishmael, 'God shall
hear.'
"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 145,
146.
12.
What distressing experience
again came to Hagar? Gen. 21:14-16.
13.
How did God again provide for
Hagar in her banishment? Gen. 21:
17-19.
NOTE.—
"
Thus
it is that heaven ministers
to man's needs. These poor exiles were
hopeless and friendless. No more could
they return to the abundance of Abraham's
house. Moreover, He to whom the future
is as an open book, knew that Ishmael
would not choose to walk in the paths of
righteousness; yet, notwithstanding all this,
He sent an angel from heaven to this sor-
rowing mother and her suffering child to
supply their needs.
"In this dark world there is many a
mother whose heart aches as did Hagar's;
many a one who, like the outcast Egyptian,
knows not what to do. Often her heart is
too full for utterance. There may be no
true human friend to whom she can tell her
sorrows, none from whom she may seek
counsel. In utter hopelessness, she may feel
that life is too bitter to be borne, and long
for the time when she may rest from her
troubles. But there is not one such who
may not find comfort and help in God."—
I. H. Evans,
The Ministry of Angels,
pages
168, 169.
An Angel Intervenes in Abra-
ham's Supreme Test
14.
What supreme test of faith
came to Abraham? Gen. 22:2, 9.
15.
As Abraham was about to sac-
rifice his son, by what divine inter-
vention was his, hand stayed? Gen.
22:10-12.
[26
1
Lesson 9, for November 26, 1955
Angel Ministry to Men (Continued)
MEMORY VERSE:
"Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the Lord is
in this place; and I knew it not." Gen. 28:16.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of
the lesson.
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-11.
Wednesday: Ques. 12-14.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
bath School Lesson Help.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Ministry of Angels Revealed
to Jacob
1.
Jacob's dream. Gen. 28:10-12.
2.
Divine assurance. Gen. 28:13-15.
3.
Bethel-The House of God. Gen.
28:16-22.
III. Angels Appear to Jacob on His
Return From Padan-aram
1.
"God's host." Gen. 32:1, 2.
2.
Jacob's prayer. Gen. 32:9-12.
3.
Preparation to meet Esau. Gen.
32:13, 21.
4.
Jacob's night of wrestling. Gen.
32:24-30.
IV. An Angel Ministers to Elijah
1.
Jezebel's threat against the prophet.
1 Kings 19:1, 2.
2.
Elijah's flight and despondency.
1 Kings 19:3, 4.
3.
An angel awakens Elijah. 1 Kings
19:5, 6.
4.
Angel again appears and strength-
ens Elijah. 1 Kings 19:7, 8.
V. Angel Ministry in Resisting
Enemies of God's People
1.
Balaam hired to curse Israel. Num.
22:5-7.
2.
Angel intercepts Balaam. Num.
22:22-26, 31-35.
3.
Angel influence in Persian court.
Dan. 10:13.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The examples of angel ministry on behalf
of God's people are so numerous that we
have the privilege of a second lesson on this
subject. How grateful we should be for
this ministry ! "God commissions His an-
gels to save His chosen ones from calamity.
. . . Again and again have angels• talked
with men as a man speaketh with a friend,
and led them to places of security. Again
and again have the encouraging words of
angels renewed the drooping spirits of the
faithful. . . .
"It is the work of the angels to come close
to the tried, the suffering, the tempted.
They labor untiringly in behalf of those for
whom Christ died. . .
"The principalities and powers of heaven
are watching the warfare which, under ap-
parently discouraging circumstances, God's
servants are carrying on. New conquests
I 271,
H
WM
IN MANY DAILY EXPERIENCES ANGELS
SE814 • TO SAVE US FROM
OURSELVES;'
are being achieved, new honors won, as the
Christians, rallying round the banner of
their Redeemer, go forth to fight the good
fight of faith. All the heavenly angels are
at the service of the humble, believing peo-
people of God; and as the Lord's army of
workers here below sing their songs of
praise, the choir above join with them in
ascribing praise to God and to His Son."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 153, 154.
Ministry of Angels Revealed
to Jacob
1. In Jacob's dream at Bethel whom
did he see ascending and descending
between earth and heaven? Gen. 28:
10-12.
NoTE.—"Heaven is brought near to earth
by that mystic ladder, the base of which is
firmly planted on the earth, while the top-
most round reaches the throne of the In-
finite. Angels are constantly ascending and
descending this ladder of shining brightness,
bearing the prayers of the needy and dis-
tressed to the Father above, and bringing
blessing and hope, courage and help, to the
children of men. These angels of light
create a heavenly atmosphere about the
soul, lifting us toward the unseen and the
eternal. We cannot behold their forms
with our natural sight; only by spiritual
vision can we discern heavenly things. The
spiritual ear alone can hear the harmony
of heavenly voices."—The.
Acts of the Apos-
tles,
page 153.
2.
What message did God speak to
Jacob? Gen. 28:13-15.
3.
What are some of the indications
of the deep impression this dream had
upon Jacob? Gen. 28:16-22.
Angels Appear to Jacob on His
Return From Padan-aram
4.
Who met Jacob as he was re-
turning to his father's land twenty
years later? Gen. 32:1, 2.
NOTE.—"Again the Lord granted Jacob a
token of the divine care. As he traveled
southward from Mount Gilead, two hosts
of heavenly angels seemed to encompass
him behind and before, advancing with
his company, as if for their protection. Ja-
cob remembered the vision at Bethel so long
before, and his burdened heart grew lighter
at this evidence that the divine messengers
who had brought him hope and courage at
his flight from Canaan, were to be the
guardians of his return. And he said, 'This
is God's host; and he called the name of
that place Mahanaim'—`two hosts, or
camps.'
"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
195.
5.
When in distress for fear of
Esau, for what did Jacob pray? Gen.
32:9-12.
6.
What preparation did Jacob
make to meet his brother? Gen. 32:
13, 21.
7.
What experience did he have
with an angel during the night? Gen.
32:24-30.
[28
7
NoTE.—"The struggle continued until
near the break of day, when the stranger
placed his finger upon Jacob's thigh, and
he was crippled instantly. The patriarch
now discerned the character of his antago-
nist. He knew that he had been in conflict
with a heavenly messenger, and this was
why his almost superhuman effort had not
gained the victory. It was Christ, 'the An-
gel of the covenant,' who had revealed
Himself to
Jacob."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 197.
An Angel Ministers to Elijah
8.
What threat did Jezebel make
against Elijah? 1 Kings 19:1, 2.
9.
For what did Elijah pray when
in utter discouragement at the threat
of Jezebel? 1 Kings 19:3, 4.
10.
In this dark hour of despon-
dency who ministered to the weary
prophet? 1 Kings 19:5, 6.
11.
At the second appearance of the
angel how did he minister to Elijah?
What was the result of that ministry?
1 Kings 19:7, 8.
NOTE.—"Into the experience of all there
come times of keen disappointment and
utter discouragement,—days when sorrow
is the portion, and it is hard to believe that
God is still the kind benefactor of His earth-
born children; days when troubles harass
the soul, till death seems preferable to life.
It is then that many lose their hold on
God, and are brought into the slavery of
doubt, the bondage of unbelief. Could we
at such times discern with spiritual insight
the meaning of God's providences, we
should see angels seeking to save us from
ourselves, striving to plant our feet upon
a foundation more firm than the everlast-
ing hills; and new faith, new life, would
spring into
being."—Prophets and Kings,
page 162.
Angel Ministry in Resisting
Enemies of God's People
12.
Whom did Balak, the enemy of
Israel, hire to curse God's people?
Num. 22:5-7.
13.
How did an angel intervene,
and what restrictions were placed
upon the mercenary prophet? Num.
22:22-26, 31-35.
14.
What other instance is re-
corded of angel intervention on be-
half of God's people in the time of
Daniel? Dan. 10:13.
NOTE.—"While Satan was striving to in-
fluence the highest powers in the kingdom
of Medo-Persia to show disfavor to God's
people, angels worked in behalf of the ex-
iles. The controversy was one in which all
heaven was interested. Through the prophet
Daniel we are given a glimpse of this
mighty struggle between the forces of good
and the forces of evil. For three weeks Ga-
briel wrestled with the powers of darkness,
seeking to counteract the influences at work
on the mind of Cyrus; and before the con-
test closed, Christ Himself came to Ga-
briel's aid. 'The prince of the kingdom of
Persia withstood me one and twenty days,'
Gabriel declares; 'but, lo, Michael, one of
the chief princes, came to help me; and I
remained there with the kings of Persia.'
All that heaven could do in behalf of the
people of God was done. The victory was
finally gained; the forces of the enemy were
held in check all the days of Cyrus, and all
the days of his son Cambyses, who reigned
about seven and a half
years."—Prophets
and Kings,
pages 571, 572.
29
Lesson 10, for December 3, 1955
Angel Ministry to Jesus
MEMORY VERSE:
"Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He shall
presently give Me more than twelve legions of angels?" Matt. 26:53.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-16.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-4.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday Ques. 5-8.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12.
Lesson Outline:
I.
Introduction
II. Angels at the Birth and the
Temptation of Christ
1.
Angels announce the birth of Christ.
Luke 2:8-14.
2.
Wise Men follow the "star." Matt.
2:1, 2, 9, 10.
3.
Angel appears to Joseph. Matt.
2:13.
4.
Angel ministry to Christ in the wil-
derness. Matt. 4:1, 11.
III. Angels in Gethsemane and at
Trial of Jesus
I. Angel strengthens Christ for His
hour of agony. Luke 22:39-44.
2. Mob struck to the ground. John
18:4-6.
3.
Legions at His command. Matt.
26:52-54.
4.
Warning to Pilate in the judgment
hall. Matt. 27:2, 19.
5.
Cruel treatment in spite of angel
warning. Matt. 27:26-30.
IV. Angels at His Resurrection and
Ascension
I. Angel at the tomb. Matt. 28:1, 2.
2.
Effect upon the soldiers. Matt.
28:3, 4.
3.
Angel's message to the women.
Matt. 28:5-7.
4.
Luke mentions two angels. Luke
24:3-5.
5.
Christ's ascension. Acts 1:9.
6.
Angels' message of comfort. Acts
1:10, 11.
7.
Angelic choir receives Christ. Ps.
24:3-10.
THE LESSON
Introduction
In
the angels' ministry to Christ while
upon earth we have an example of their
loving solicitude for all His followers. Christ
availed Himself of no divine assistance that
is not at the disposal of His people.
"The angels of God are ascending, bear-
ing the prayers of the needy and distressed
to the Father above, and descending, bring-
ing blessing and hope, courage, help, and
life, to the children of men.
"The angels of God are ever passing from
earth to heaven, and from heaven to earth.
1
301
The miracles of Christ for the afflicted and
suffering were wrought by the power of
God through the ministration of the an-
gels. And it is through Christ, by the
ministration of His heavenly messengers,
that every blessing comes from God to us.
In taking upon Himself humanity, our
Saviour unites His interests with those of
the fallen sons and daughters of Adam,
while through His divinity He grasps the
throne of God. And thus Christ is the
medium of communication of men with
God, and of God with men."—The
Desire
of Ages,
pages 142, 143.
Angels at the Birth and
the Temptation of Christ
1.
Who announced the Saviour's
birth with joy and song? Luke 2:8-14.
2.
How were the Wise Men from
the East guided to the birthplace of
Jesus? Matt. 2:1, 2, 9, 10.
NOTE.—"The Wise Men had seen a mys-
terious light in the heavens upon that night
when the glory of God flooded the hills of
Bethlehem. As the light faded, a luminous
star appeared, and lingered in the sky. It
was not a fixed star nor a planet, and the
phenomenon excited the keenest interest.
That star was a distant company of shining
angels, but of this the Wise Men were ig-
norant. Yet they were impressed that the
star was of special import to them."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 60.
3.
What message did an angel
bring to Joseph? Matt. 2:13.
4.
How did the angels show their
interest and sympathy when Jesus
was tempted in the wilderness? Matt.
4:1, 11.
NOTE.—"After the foe had departed, Je-
sus fell exhausted to the earth, with the pal-
lor of death upon His face. The angels of
heaven had watched the conflict, beholding
their loved Commander as• He passed
through inexpressible suffering •to make a
way of escape for us. He had endured the
test, greater than we shall ever be called to
endure. The angels now ministered to the
Son of God as He lay like one dying. He
was strengthened with food, comforted
with the message of His Father's love and
the assurance that all heaven triumphed in
His victoryr—The
Desire of Ages,
page
131.
Angels in Gethsemane and at
Trial of Jesus
5.
What ministry did an angel per-
form for Christ in the Garden of
Gethsemane? Luke 22:39-44.
NOTE.—"The worlds unfallen and the
heavenly angels had watched with intense
interest as the conflict drew to its close. Sa-
tan and his confederacy •of evil, the legions
of apostasy, watched intently this great
crisis in the work of redemption. The pow-
ers of good and evil waited to see what
answer would come to Christ's thrice-re-
peated prayer. Angels had longed to bring
relief to the divine sufferer, but this might
not be. No way of escape was found for
the Son of God. In this awful crisis, when
everything was at stake, when the mysteri-
ous cup trembled in the hand of the suf-
ferer, the heavens opened, a light shone
forth amid the stormy darkness of the
crisis hour, and the mighty angel who
stands in God's presence, occupying the
position from which Satan fell, came
.
to the
side of Christ. The angel came not to take
the cup from Christ's hand, but to strengthen
Him to drink it, with the assurance of the
Father's love."—The
Desire of Ages,
page
693.
6.
What experience came to a band
of men in Gethsemane when Jesus an-
swered them, "I am He"? John 18:
4-6.
[317
THIS SAME JESUS —St'
SHALL
50
COME."
TWO OF THE
GRANDEST ANGEL .MES5AGES
EVER
GIVEN TO MAN.
NOTE.—"No
traces of His recent agony
were visible as Jesus stepped forth to meet
His betrayer. Standing in advance of His
disciples He said, 'Whom seek ye?' They
answered, 'Jesus of Nazareth.' Jesus re-
plied, 'I am He.' As these words were
spoken, the angel who had lately ministered
to Jesus moved between Him and the mob.
A divine light illuminated the Saviour's
face, and a dovelike form overshadowed
Him. In the presence of this divine glory,
the murderous throng could not stand for
a moment. They staggered back. Priests,
elders, soldiers, and even Judas, fell as dead
men to the ground."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 694.
7.
In His rebuke to Peter to what
potential aid did Christ refer? Matt.
26:52-54.
NOTE.—"Peter
in his •anger rashly drew
his sword and tried to defend his Master.
. . . He then said to Peter, 'Put up again
thy sword into his place. . . . Thinkest
thou that I cannot now pray to My Fa-
ther, and He shall presently give Me more
than twelve legions of angels?'—a legion
in place of each one of the disciples."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 696.
8.
What warning was sent to Pi-
late from his wife during the trial of
Jesus? Matt. 27:2, 19.
Non.—"From the first, Pilate was con-
victed that Jesus was no common man. He
believed Him to be an excellent character
and entirely innocent of the charges brought
against Him. The angels who were witness-
ing the scene marked the convictions of the
Roman governor, and to save him from en-
gaging in the awful act of delivering Christ
to be crucified, an angel was sent to Pilate's
wife, and gave her information through a
dream that it was the Son of God in whose
trial her husband was engaged, and that He
was an innocent sufferer. She immediately
sent a message to Pilate, stating that she
had suffered many things in a dream on
account of Jesus and warning him to have
nothing to do with that holy
man."—Early
Writings,
page 173.
9.
In spite of the angel's warning
what cruel treatment was meted out
to Jesus? Matt. 27:26-30.
NoTE.—"The multitude were clamorous
for the blood of Jesus. They cruelly
scourged Him, and put upon Him an old
purple kingly robe, and bound His sacred
head with a crown of thorns. They put a
reed into His hand, and bowed to Him, and
mockingly saluted Him, 'Hail, king of the
Jews!' They then took the reed from His
hand and smote Him with it upon the head,
causing the thorns to penetrate His tem-
ples, sending the blood trickling down His
face and beard.
"It was difficult for the angels to endure
the sight. They would have delivered Jesus,
but the commanding angels forbade them,
saying that it was a great ransom which
was to be paid for man; but it would be
complete and would cause the death of him
who had the power of death. Jesus knew
that angels were witnessing the scene of His
humiliation. The weakest angel could have
caused that mocking throng to fall power-
less and could have delivered Jesus. He
knew that if He should desire it of His Fa-
ther, angels would instantly release Him.
But it 17,4s necessary that He should suffer
the violence of wicked men, in order to
carry out the plan of salvation."—Early
Writings,
page 170.
[32]
Angels at His Resurrection
and. Ascension
10.
What work was given an an-
gel the morning of Christ's resurrec-
tion? Matt. 28:1, 2.
NoTE.—"A heavenly host surrounded the
sepulcher. Angels that excel in strength
were guarding the tomb, and waiting to
welcome the Prince of life.
" 'And, behold, there was a great earth-
quake: for the angel of the Lord descended
from heaven.' Clothed with the panoply
of God, this angel left the heavenly courts.
The bright beams of God's glory went be-
fore him, and illuminated his pathway.
`His countenance was like lightning, and
his raiment white as snow: and for fear of
him the keepers did shake, and became as
dead men.'
"Now, priests and rulers, where is the
power of your guard? Brave soldiers that
have never been afraid of human power
are now as captives taken without sword
or spear. The face they look upon is not
the face of mortal warrior; it is the face of
the mightiest of the Lord's host. This mes-
senger is he who fills the position from
which Satan fell. It is he who on the hills
of Bethlehem proclaimed Christ's birth. The
earth trembles at his approach, the hosts
of darkness flee, and as he rolls away the
stone, heaven seems to come down to the
earth. The soldiers see him removing the
stone as he would a pebble, and hear him
cry, Son of God, come forth ; Thy Father
calls Thee. They see Jesus come forth from
the grave, and hear Him proclaim over the
rent sepulcher, 'I am the resurrection, and
the life.' As He comes forth in majesty and
glory, the angel host bow low in adoration
before the Redeemer, and welcome Him
with songs of praise."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 779, 780.
11.
What effect did the angelic
presence have upon the soldier guard?
Matt. 28:3, 4.
NoTE.—"Terror seized the Roman guard.
Where was now their power to keep the
body of Jesus? They did not think of their
duty or of the disciples' stealing Him away.
As the light of the angels shone around,
brighter than the sun, that Roman guard
fell as dead men to the ground."—Early
Writings,
page 182.
12.
What message did the angel
give
to the women? Matt. 28:5-7.
13.
How many angels at least had
special duties in connection with the
resurrection? Luke 24:3-5.
14.
What record do we have of the
ascension of Jesus? Acts 1:9.
15.
What message of comfort came
to the sorrowing disciples? Acts 1:
10, 11.
NoTE.—"These angels were of the com-
pany that had been waiting in a shining
cloud to escort Jesus to His heavenly home.
The most exalted of the angel throng, they
were the two who had come to the tomb
at Christ's resurrection, and they had been
with Him throughout His life on earth.
With eager desire all heaven had waited for
the end of His tarrying in a world marred
by the curse of sin. The time had now
come for the heavenly universe to receive
their King. Did not the two angels long
to join the throng that welcomed Jesus?
But in sympathy and love for those whom
He had left, they waited to give them com-
fort. 'Are they not all ministering spirits,
sent forth to minister for them who shall
be heirs of salvation?' Heb.
1:14."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 832.
16.
In what words was the ascen-
sion prophesied by the psalmist? Ps.
24:3-10.
[33
1
Lesson 11, for December 10, 1955
Angel Ministry to the Apostles
MEMORY VERSE:
"But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and
brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people
all the words of this life." Acts 5:19, 20.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-16.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab•
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-12.
Lesson Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Peter and John Delivered
by an Angel
1.
Peter and John healing and preach-
ing. Acts 3:1-8; 4:8-10, 33.
2.
Imprisoned at instigation of the
priests. Acts 5:17, 18.
3.
Delivered by an angel. Acts 5:19, 20.
III. Stephen and Philip Subject to
Influence of Angels
1.
Stephen's appearance before his
persecutors. Acts 6:8-15.
2.
Persecution spreads the gospel.
Acts 8:1-4.
3.
Philip's mission to Samaria. Acts
8:5-8.
4.
Angel directs Philip to Ethiopian
eunuch. Acts 8:26-30.
IV. Cornelius and Peter Directed
by an Angel
1.
Angel visits Roman centurion. Acts
10:1-6.
2.
Cornelius sends messengers to
Joppa. Acts 10:7, 8.
3.
Peter prepared for his visitors.
Acts 10:9, 10, 17-20.
4.
Messengers make known their re-
quest. Acts 10:21-23.
5.
Results of following the angel's di-
rections. Acts 10:24, 34, 35, 44-48.
V. Peter and Paul Experience Inter-
position of Angels
1.
Peter imprisoned under Herod's
persecution. Acts 12:1-5.
2.
An angel releases his chains. Acts
12:6-8.
3.
Herod smitten by an angel. Acts
12:21-24.
4.
Paul assured by the angel. Acts
27:22-25.
THE LESSON
Introduction
As we contemplate the divine guidance
and angelic interposition in behalf of the
apostolic church, we are assured of the same
interest of heaven in the messengers of God
today.
"The experience of Philip, directed by an
[ 34 ]
angel from heaven to go to the place where
he met one seeking for truth; of Cornelius,
visited by an angel with a message from
God; of Peter, in prison and condemned to
death, led by an angel forth to safety,—all
show the closeness of the connection be-
tween heaven and earth.
"To the worker for God, the record of
these angel visits should bring strength and
courage. Today, as verily as in the days of
the apostles, heavenly messengers are pass-
ing through the length and breadth of the
land, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to
protect the impenitent, to win the hearts
of men to Christ. We cannot see them per-
sonally; nevertheless they are with us, guid-
ing, directing, protecting."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 152, 153.
Peter and John Delivered
by an Angel
1.
What glimpse is given us of the
ministry of Peter and John in the
early days of the apostolic church?
Acts 3:1-8; 4:8-10, 33.
2.
What resulted from their effec-
tive preaching of the gospel? Acts
5:17, 18.
NorE.—"While Peter and John were pri-
soners, the other disciples, knowing the
malignity of the Jews, had prayed unceas-
ingly for their brethren, fearing that the
cruelty shown to Christ might be repeated."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 67.
3.
What deliverance came to these
apostles? Acts 5:19, 20.
Stephen and Philip Subject
to Influence of Angels
4.
How did Stephen in his martyr-
dom reflect the influence of angels in
his experience? Acts 6:8-15.
NOTE.—"As Stephen stood face to face
with his judges to answer to the charge of
blasphemy, a holy radiance shone upon his
countenance, and 'all that sat in the coun-
cil, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face
as it had been the face of an angel.' Many
who beheld this light trembled and veiled
their faces, but the stubborn unbelief and
prejudice of the rulers did not waver."
"The martyrdom of Stephen made a deep
impression upon all who witnessed it. . . .
His death was a sore trial to the church, but
it resulted in the conviction of Saul, who
could not efface from his memory the faith
and constancy of the martyr, and the glory
that had rested on his countenance."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 99, 101.
5.
What resulted from the raging
persecution following the death of
Stephen? Acts 8:1-4.
NOTE.—"The persecution that came upon
the church in Jerusalem resulted in giving
a great impetus to the work of the gospel.
. . . To scatter His representatives abroad,
where they could work for others, God per-
mitted persecution to come upon them.
Driven from Jerusalem, the believers 'went
everywhere preaching the word.'
"—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 105.
6.
What did Philip do when per-
secution arose at Jerusalem? Acts 8:
5-8.
7.
What direction did an angel
give to Philip, and with what results?
Acts 8:26-30.
NoTE.—"This Ethiopian represents
a
large clasg who need to be taught by such
missionaries as Philip,—men who will hear
the voice of God, and go where He sends
them. There are many who are reading the
Scriptures who cannot understand their
true import. All over the world men and
women are looking wistfully to heaven.
Prayers and tears and inquiries go up from
souls longing for light, for grace, for the
[35
1
"THE
RECORD
OF
THESE
ANGEL
VISITS SHOULD BRING
STRENGTH AND COURAGE."
Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge of the
kingdom, waiting only to be gathered in.
"An angel guided Philip to the one who
was seeking for light, and who was ready
to receive the gospel; and today angels will
guide the footsteps of those workers who
will allow the Holy Spirit to sanctify their
tongues and refine and ennoble their hearts.
The angel sent to Philip could himself have
done the work for the Ethiopian, but this
is not God's way of working. It is His plan
that men are to work for their fellow men."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 109.
Cornelius and Peter Directed
by an Angel
8. How did the Lord answer the
prayer of a Roman officer? Acts 10:
1-6.
NOTE.—"The angel appeared to Cornel-
ius while he was at prayer. As the centu-
rion heard himself addressed by name, he
was afraid, yet he knew that the messenger
had come from God, and he said, 'What is it,
Lord?' The angel answered, 'Thy prayers
and thine alms are come up for a memo-
rial before God. And now send men to
Joppa, and call for one Simon; whose sur-
name is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon
a tanner, whose house is by the seaside.'
"The explicitness of these directions, in
which was named even the occupation of
the man with whom Peter was staying,
shows that heaven is acquainted with the
history and business of men in every sta-
tion of life. God is familiar with the ex-
perience and work of the humble laborer,
as well as with that of the king upon his
throne."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
133, 134.
9.
In harmony with the angel's in-
struction what course did Cornelius
follow? Acts 10:7, 8.
10.
How did God prepare Peter to
receive the delegation from Cornel-
ius? Acts 10:9, 10, 17-20.
NoTE.—"The angel, after his interview
with Cornelius, went to Peter, in Joppa."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 135.
11.
What experience did the mes-
sengers repeat as they made known
their request to Peter? Acts 10:21-23.
NOTE.—"Because Cornelius was living in
obedience to all the instruction he had re-
ceived, God so ordered events that he was
given more truth. A messenger from the
courts of heaven was sent to the Roman
officer and to Peter, in order that Cornelius
might be brought into touch with one who
could lead him into greater light.
"There are in our world many who are
nearer the kingdom of God than we sup-
pose. In this dark world of sin, the Lord
has many precious jewels, to whom He will
guide His messengers. Everywhere there
are those who will take
.
their stand for
Christ. Many will prize the wisdom of God
above any earthly advantage, and will be-
come faithful light bearers. Constrained by
the love of Christ, they will constrain oth-
ers to come to
Him."—The Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 140, 141.
[ 36
12.
What was the result of this
meeting arranged by an angel? Acts
10:24, 34, 35, 44-48.
Peter and Paul Experience
Interposition of Angels
13.
Under whom did persecution
continue, and what persons were par-
ticularly involved? Acts 12:1-5.
NOTE.—"The government of Judea was
then in the hands of Herod Agrippa. . . .
Herod also held the position of tetrarch of
Galilee. He was professedly a proselyte to
the Jewish faith, and apparently very
zealous in carrying out the ceremonies of
the Jewish law. Desirous of obtaining the
favor of the Jews, hoping thus to make se-
cure his offices and honors, he proceeded to
carry out their desires by persecuting the
church of Christ, spoiling the houses and
goods of the believers, and imprisoning the
leading members of the church. He cast
James, the brother of John, into prison, and
sent an executioner to kill him with the
sword, as another Herod had caused the
prophet John to be beheaded. Seeing that
the Jews were well pleased with these ef-
forts, he imprisoned Peter also."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 143.
14.
How was Peter released? Acts
12:6-8.
15.
What judgment came upon
Herod? Acts 12:21-24.
NOTE.—"The same angel who had come
from the royal courts to rescue Peter, had
been the messenger of wrath and judgment
to Herod. The angel smote Peter to arouse
him from slumber: it was with a different
stroke that he smote the wicked king, lay-
ing low his pride, and bringing upon him
the punishment of the Almighty. Herod
died in great agony of mind and body, un-
der the retributive judgment of God."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
152.
16.
On the storm-tossed sea what
assurance was brought by an angel
to Paul? Acts 27:22-25.
Lesson 12, for December 17, 1955
Angels in the Final Gospel Work
MEMORY VERSE:
"After these things I saw another angel come down from heaven,
having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory." Rev. 18:1.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of
the lesson.
Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Tuesday: Ques.
8-11.
Wednesday: Ques.
12-15.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
bath School Lesson Help.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
[ 37
Lesson Outline:
I.
Introduction
II. Angel Interest in the Heirs of
Salvation
1.
Angel ministry. Heb. 1:13, 14.
2.
Joy of angels over repentant sinner.
Luke 15:7, 10.
3.
Names confessed before angels.
Rev. 3:5.
III. Gospel Heralds in the Final Work
of Salvation
1.
The angel with the open book. Rev.
10:1-3.
2.
The angel's message. Rev. 10:5-7.
3.
The angel with the everlasting gos-
pel. Rev. 14:6, 7.
4.
Angel proclaims fall of Babylon.
Rev. 14:8.
5.
The message of the third angel.
Rev. 14:9-12.
6.
Angel that lightens the world. Rev.
18:1, 2.
IV. Angels and the Sealing Work
1.
Angels holding the winds. Rev. 7:1.
2.
Angel with the seal of God. Rev.
7:2, 3.
3.
A being clad in linen with writer's
inkhorn. Ezek. 9:2, 4, 11.
4.
Destruction of all but those who
have the mark of God. Ezek.
9:5-7.
5.
Number sealed. Rev. 7:4.
6.
A great multitude on sea of glass
cause rejoicing among the angels.
Rev. 7:9-12.
THE LESSON
Introduction
To God's people in the closing up of the
gospel work, this lesson on the angels in the
final work of the gospel should come with
special encouragement. As Satan and his
angels become increasingly active in the lat-
ter days, how comforting it is to know that
holy angels become all the more prominent
in the work of God.
In the time of trouble in the last days we
have the assurance of angelic care over
God's people. "Angels will shield the right-
eous, and supply their wants. . . .
"Could men see with heavenly vision,
they would behold companies of angels that
excel in strength stationed about those who
have kept the word of Christ's patience....
"The heavenly sentinels, faithful to their
trust, continue their watch. . . . None can
pass the mighty guardians stationed about
every faithful soul. Some . .. are defended
by angels in the form of men of war.
"In all ages, God has wrought through
holy angels for the succor and deliverance
of His people."-The
Great Controversy,
pages 629-631.
Angel Interest in the Heirs
of Salvation
1. To whom are the angels sent to
minister? Heb. 1:13, 14.
2.
What shows their deep interest
in the salvation of men? Luke 15:
7, 10.
Nora.-"The angels of glory find their
joy in giving,-giving love and tireless
watchcare to souls that are fallen and un-
holy. Heavenly beings woo the hearts of
men; they bring to this dark world light
from the courts above; by gentle and pa-
tient ministry they move upon the human
spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship
with Christ which is even closer than they
themselves can know."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 21.
3.
What confession further indi-
cates the interest of angels in the sal-
vation of men? Rev. 3:5.
NOTE.
-"To all the faithful ones who
were striving against evil, John heard the
promises made: 'To him that overcometh
will I give to eat of the tree of life.' . . .
`And I will not blot out his name out of
the book of life, but I will confess his name
before My Father, and before His angels.' "
-The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 588, 589.
138 3
THESE ANGELS SYMBOLIZE THE
WORK OF
GOO'S MESSENGERS ON
EARTH
OWING
THE sotemN
WARNINGS FROM HEAVEN.
Gospel Heralds in the Final
Work of Salvation
4.
What significant statements are
made in connection with the angel
messenger introduced in the tenth
chapter of the Revelation? Rev. 10:
1-3.
NorE.—His standing on both the sea and
the land, and crying with a loud voice, in-
dicates that his message was for the whole
world.
" 'He had in his hand a little book
open.'
We may infer from this language that this
book was at some time closed. We read in
Daniel of a book which was closed and
sealed to a certain time: 'Thou,
0
Daniel,
shut up the words, and seal the book, even
to the time of the end. . . .' Daniel 12:4.
Since this book was closed only
until
the
time of the end, it follows that
at
the time
of the end the book would be opened. . . .
There is no book spoken of as closed and
sealed except the book of Daniel's proph-
ecy, and there is no account of the opening
of that book unless it be here in Revelation
10."—The Prophecies of Daniel and the
Revelation,
pages 519, 520.
5.
What was the startling message
of this angel? Rev. 10:5-7.
NoTx.—"Few will be disposed to deny
that the mystery of God is the gospel. It is
the same, then, as if the angel had de-
clared, In the days of the voice of the sev-
enth angel, when he shall begin to sound,
the
gospel
shall be finished."—The
Proph-
ecies of Daniel and the Revelation,
pages
526, 527.
6.
How is the world-wide nature of
the judgment hour expressed? Rev.
14:6, 7.
NorE.—"These angels are evidently sym-
bolic; for the work assigned them is that of
preaching the everlasting gospel to the peo-
ple. But the preaching of the gospel has
not been entrusted to literal angels; it has
been committed unto men, who are respon-
sible for this sacred trust placed in their
hands. Each of these three angels, there-
fore, symbolizes a body of religious teach-
ers, who are commissioned to make known
to their fellow men the special truths which
constitute the burden of these messages
respectively.
"But we are to consider further that an-
gels, literally, are intensely interested in the
work of grace among men, being sent forth
to minister to those who shall be heirs of
salvation. And as there is order in all the
movements and appointments of the heav-
enly world, it may not be fanciful to sup-
pose that a literal angel has charge and
oversight of the work of each message."—
Daniel and the Revelation,
1918 ed., p. 633.
7.
How was the fall of Babylon an-
nounced? Rev. 14:8.
8.
What is said of the message of
the third angel? Rev. 14:9-12.
NOTE.—
"
I
then saw the third angel. Said
my accompanying angel, 'Fearful is his
work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel
that is to select the wheat from the tares,
[39
]
and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heav-
enly garner. These things should engross the
whole mind, the whole attention.'
"—Early
Writings,
page 118.
9.
What mighty being will join the
third angel in the last warning to man
and lighten the earth with his glory?
Rev. 18:1, 2.
NoTE.—"I saw angels hurrying to and
fro in heaven, descending to the earth, and
again ascending to heaven, preparing for
the fulfillment of some important event.
Then I saw another mighty angel commis-
sioned to descend to the earth, to unite his
voice with the third angel, and give power
and force to his message. Great power and
glory were imparted to the angel, and as he
descended, the earth was lightened with his
glory. . . .
"Angels were sent to aid the mighty an-
gel from heaven, and I heard voices which
seemed to sound everywhere, 'Come out of
her, My people, that ye be not partakers of
her sins, and that ye receive not of her
plagues. For her sins have reached unto
heaven, and God hath remembered her
iniquities.'
"—Early Writings,
page 277.
Angels and the Sealing Work
10.
What did John see four angels
doing? Rev. 7:1.
NOTE.—"The time of the work here intro-
duced is established beyond mistake. The
sixth chapter closed with the events of the
sixth seal, and the seventh seal is not men-
tioned until we reach the beginning of Rev-
elation 8. The whole of Revelation 7 is
therefore thrown in here parenthetically.
. . . The expression, 'after these things,'
does not mean after the fulfillment of all
the events previously described, but after
the prophet had been carried in vision to
the close of the sixth seal. . . . It must be
accomplished before the departing of the
heavens as a scroll, for after that event
there is no place for such a work as this.
It must take place after the signs in the
sun, moon, and stars, for these signs have
already been fulfilled, and such a sealing
work has not yet been accomplished. It
comes in therefore between the 13th and
14th verses of Revelation 6. There, as al-
ready shown, is just where we now stand.
Hence the first part of Revelation 7 relates
to a work the accomplishment of which
may be looked for now."—The
Prophecies
of Daniel and the Revelation,
page 453.
11.
What vitally important work
of another angel is next introduced?
Rev. 7:2, 3.
NOTE.—"I saw four angels who had a
work to do on the earth, and were on their
way to accomplish it. Jesus was clothed
with priestly garments. He gazed in pity
on the remnant, then raised His hands, and
with a voice of deep pity cried,
'My blood,
Father, My blood, My blood, My blood!'
Then I saw an exceeding bright light come
from God, who sat upon the great white
throne, and was shed all about Jesus.
Then I saw an angel with a commission
from Jesus, swiftly flying to the four an-
gels who had a work to do on the earth,
and waving something up and down in his
hand, and crying with a loud voice,
'Hold!
Hold! Hold! Hold!
until the servants of
God are sealed in their foreheads.'
"I asked my accompanying angel the
meaning of what I heard, and what the
four angels were about to do. He said to
me that it was God that restrained the
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSONS IN BRAILLE
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7
powers, and that He gave His angels charge
over things on the earth; that the four an-
gels had power from God to hold the four
winds, and that they were about to let
them go; but while their hands were loose-
ening, and the four winds were 'about to
blow, the merciful eye of Jesus gazed on
the remnant that were not sealed, and He
raised His hands to the Father and pleaded
with Him that He had spilled His blood for
them. Then another angel was commis-
sioned to fly swiftly to the four angels and
bid them hold, until the servants of God
were sealed with the seal of the living God
in their foreheads."—Early
Writings,
page
38.
12. How is the sealing work de-
scribed by the prophet? Ezek. 9:2,
4, 11.
NOTE.—"I saw angels hurrying to and fro
in heaven. An angel with a writer's ink-
horn by his side returned from the earth
and reported to Jesus that his work was
.
done, and the saints were numbered and
sealed. Then I saw Jesus, who had been
ministering before the ark containing the
Ten Commandments, throw down the cen-
ser. He raised His hands, and with a loud
voice said,
'It is done.' "—Early Writings,
page 279.
13.
What terrible commission was
next to be carried out? Ezek. 9:5-7.
NoTE.—"The mark of deliverance has
been set upon those 'that sigh and that cry
for all the abominations that be done.' Now
the angel of death goes forth, represented
in Ezekiel's vision by the men with the
slaughtering weapons, to whom the com-
mand is given: 'Slay utterly old and young,
both maids, and little children, and women:
but come not near any man upon whom is
the mark; and begin at My sanctuary.'
Says the prophet, 'They began at the an-
cient men which were before the house.'
The work of destruction begins among those
who have professed to be the spiritual
guardians of the people. The false watch-
men are the first to fall. There are none to
pity or to spare. Men, women, maidens,
and little children perish together."—The
Great Controversy,
page 656.
14.
How many from
the
tribes of
Israel are sealed? Rev. 7:4.
15.
What is the cause of great re-
joicing among the angel throng
around the throne of God? Rev. 7:
9-12.
Lesson 13, for December 24, 1955
Angels in the World Harvest
MEMORY VERSE:
"When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy
angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Matt. 25:31.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques.
12-15.
the lesson.
Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab-
Sunday: Introduction; Ques.
1-3.
bath School Lesson Help.
Monday: Ques. 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-11.
[ 41 ]
Lesson Outline:
IV.
I. Introduction
II. Time of the Harvest
1.
Prophecy of the final harvest. Joel
3:12-14.
2.
Harvest, the end of the world.
Matt. 13:39, middle part of verse.
3.
Angel announces that harvest is V.
ripe. Rev. 14:15.
III. At Christ's Coming
1.
All nations gathered before Him.
Matt. 25:31, 32, first part.
2.
Comes with angels and awards.
Matt, 16:27.
3.
Effect on the wicked. Matt. 24:30,
31, first part.
4.
The joy of the righteous. Isa.
25:8, 9.
The Angel Reapers
1.
Work of angels in the harvest. Matt.
13:39, last part.
2.
Reaping the vintage. Rev. 14:17-19.
3.
Angels referred to as "the armies
which were in heaven." Rev.
19:11-15.
Separation of Wicked From the
Righteous
1.
Parable of the wheat and the tares.
Matt. 13:25-30.
2.
Interpretation of the parable. Matt.
13:38-41.
3.
Angels sever the wicked from the
just. Matt. 13:49.
4.
Wicked cast into furnace of fire.
Matt. 13:42, 50; Mal. 4:1.
5.
Righteous rewarded in kingdom of
their Father. Matt. 13:43; 25:34.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The greatest manifestation of holy angels
ever witnessed upon this earth will be at the
second coming of Christ, when He comes in
glory with all the holy angels with Him to
reap the harvest of earth. With what com-
fort may the child of God look forward to
this final service of angels for man upon
this earth!
"When Christ comes, He will send His
angels in every direction, wherever the
saints of God lie sleeping, to gather out His
faithful ones, His elect, chosen, precious,
ransomed from among men. Not one grave,
however lonely, will be neglected in that
hour; not one burial place overlooked. Not
one who made God his trust, though he lie
in the depths of the sea, will be forgotten."
-I. H. Evans,
The Ministry of Angels,
page 279.
Time of the Harvest
1. What prophecy of the final har-
vest is made by Joel? Joel 3:12-14.
2.
When is the harvest declared to
be? Matt. 13:39, middle part of verse.
3.
How is the time of the harvest
referred to by John? Rev. 14:15.
NoTE.-"Events grow solemn as we near
the end. It is this fact which gives to the
third angel's message, now going forth, its
unusual degree of solemnity and impor-
tance. It is the last warning to go forth
prior to the coming of the Son of man, here
represented as seated upon a white cloud,
a crown upon His head, and a sickle in His
hand, to reap the harvest of the earth."-
The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revela-
tion,
pages 676, 677.
At Christ's Coming
4.
At Christ's coming who will be
gathered before Him? Matt. 25:31,
32, first part.
[42
]
THE
mans WILL
OATH!! clops FAITHFUL
ONES FROM AU. THE EARTH,
NOTE.—"With unerring accuracy the In-
finite One still keeps account with the na-
tions. While His mercy is tendered, with
calls to repentance, this account remains
open; but when the figures reach a certain
amount which God has fixed, the ministry
of His wrath begins. The account is closed.
Divine patience ceases. Mercy no longer
pleads in their
behalf."—Prophets and
Kings,
page 364.
5.
At this time what will be ac-
complished by Christ and the angels?
Matt. 16:27.
6.
What will be the effect upon the
wicked as Jesus comes with His an-
gels? Matt. 24:30, 31, first part. Com-
pare Rev. 6:15-17.
Noza.—"The time is not far distant when
God will arise to vindicate His insulted
authority. 'The Lord cometh out of His
place to punish the inhabitants of the earth
for their iniquity.' . . . The voice of the
Archangel and the trump of God shall sum-
mon, from the whole earth, both the living
and the dead to the presence of their Judge.
The Father and the Son, attended by a mul-
titude of angels, were present upon the
mount. At the great judgment day, Christ
will come 'in the glory of His Father with
His angels.' He shall then sit upon the
throne of His glory, and before Him shall
be gathered all
nations."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 339.
7.
How will the righteous express
their joy at this time? Isa. 25:8, 9.
NcrE.—"All heaven will be emptied of
the angels, while the waiting saints will be
looking for Him and gazing into heaven, as
were the men of Galilee when He ascended
from the Mount of Olivet. Then only those
who are holy, those who have followed
fully the meek Pattern, will with rapturous
joy exclaim as they behold Him, `Lo, this
is our God; we have waited for Him, and
He will save
us.' "—Early Writings,
page
110.
The Angel Reapers
8.
What is the work of the angels
in the time of the harvest? Matt. 13:
39, last part.
9.
What command is given to an
angel when the grapes are fully ripe?
Rev. 14:17-19.
10.
Who will accompany Christ as
He comes to tread the wine press?
Rev. 19:11-15.
NOTE.—"Jesus rides forth as a mighty
conqueror. Not now a 'Man of Sorrows,'
to drink the bitter cup of shame and woe,
He comes, victor in heaven and earth, to
judge the living and the dead. 'Faithful and
true,' in righteousness He doth judge and
make war.' And 'the armies which were in
heaven follow Him.' With anthems of ce-
[ 43
lestial melody the holy angels, a vast, un-
numbered throng, attend Him on His way.
The firmament seems filled with radiant
forms,—`ten thousand times ten thousand,
and thousands of thousands.' No human
pen can portray the scene; no mortal mind
is adequate to conceive its splendor. 'His
glory covered the heavens, and the earth
was full of His praise. And His brightness
was as the light.' As the living cloud comes
still nearer, every eye beholds the Prince
of life. No crown of thorns now mars that
sacred head, but a diadem of glory rests on
His holy brow. His countenance outshines
the dazzling brightness of the noonday sun.
`And He hath on His vesture and on His
thigh a name written, King of kings, and
Lord of lords.'
"—The Great Controversy,
page 641.
Separation of Wicked From
the Righteous
11.
In the parable of the wheat and
tares what were the reapers to do in
the time of the harvest? Matt. 13:
25-30.
12.
In interpreting the parable
what did Jesus say would be the work
of angels? Matt. 13:38-41.
NOTE.—"The tares are permitted to grow
among the wheat, to have all the advantage
of sun and shower; but in the time of har-
vest ye shall 'return, and discern between
the righteous and the wicked, between him
that serveth God and him that serveth Him
not.' Christ Himself will decide who are
worthy to dwell with the family of heaven.
He will judge every man according to his
words and his works. Profession is as noth-
ing in the scale. It is character that de-
cides destiny."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 74.
13.
What separation will then take
place at the end of the world? Matt.
13:49.
NOTE.—"The derisive jests have ceased.
Lying lips are hushed into silence. . . . The
wicked pray to be buried beneath the rocks
of the mountains, rather than meet the face
of Him whom they have despised and re-
jected."—The
Great Controversy,
page 642.
14.
What disposition will be made
of the wicked? Matt. 13:42, 50; Mal.
4:1.
NOTE.—"Both the parable of the tares
and that of the net plainly teach that there
is no time when all the wicked will turn
to God. The wheat and the tares grow to-
gether until the harvest. The good and the
bad fish are together drawn ashore for a
final separation.
"Again, these parables teach that there is
to be no probation after the judgment.
When the work of the gospel is completed,
there immediately follows the separation
between the good and the evil, and the
destiny of each class is forever fixed.
"God does not desire the destruction of
any. 'As I live, saith the Lord God, I have
no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but
that the wicked turn from his way and live.
Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for
why will ye die ?' Throughout the period
of probationary time His Spirit is entreat-
ing men to accept the gift of life. It is only
those who reject His pleading that will be
left to perish. God has declared that sin
must be destroyed as an evil ruinous to the
universe. Those who cling to sin will perish
in its destruction."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 123.
15.
What will be the reward of the
righteous? Matt. 13:43; 25:34.
NoTE.—"The great controversy is ended.
Sin and sinners are no more. The entire
universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and
gladness beats through the vast creation.
From Him who created all, flow life and
light and gladness, throughout the realms
of illimitable space. From the minutest
atom to the greatest world, all things, ani-
mate and inanimate, in their unshadowed
beauty and perfect joy, declare that God
is
love."—The Great Controversy,
page 678.
[
44]
Lesson 14, for December 31,
1955
Review
MEMORY VERSE:
Review the memory verses for the quarter and endeavor to
fasten them in the memory.
STUDY HELP:
"Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help.
DAILY
STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: Review the memory
verses.
Sunday: Lessons 1,
2.
Monday: Lessons 3-5.
Tuesday: Lessons 6-8.
Wednesday: Lessons 9-11.
Thursday: Lessons 12, 13.
Friday: "Review and Herald" Sabbath
School Lesson Help.
THE LESSON
How have men been affected at the ap-
pearance of an angel? Judges 6:21-23;
Dan. 8:16, 17. What change in man's
position will follow the resurrection?
Luke 20:36.
Introduction
We have just completed the study of a
series of lessons that should be a great bless-
ing to us in the knowledge that an angel is
with us every step of the way when we
walk in the path of righteousness, and that
our Father in heaven has legions of angels
which He sends forth "to minister for them
who shall be heirs of salvation." On this
fourteenth Sabbath of the quarter we shall
review some of the highlights of the lessons
that have gone before in an endeavor to
strengthen our confidence in the ministry of
angels as we face the trials of the last days.
Lesson 1—Angels Created Beings;
Disaffection and Conflict
By what name are the members of
God's family in heaven and earth
known? Job 1:6; 1 John 3:1. How
far back can the existence of angels
be traced? Job 38:4-7. How do we
know that angels are created beings?
Ezek. 28:15. What was the cause of
the conflict in heaven, and what was
the result? Isa. 14:12-14; Rev. 12:7-9.
Lesson 2—Angels a Higher Order
of Being Than Man
What comparative relation exists
between angels and men? Ps. 8:4, 5.
Lesson 3—The Dominion
of God and
the Number and Glory of His
His Messengers
By virtue of the act of creation,
what is God's position over the uni-
verse? Acts 17:24. How many angels
attend the Lord of heaven and earth?
Dan. 7:9, 10. How does Daniel de-
scribe the glory of an angel? Dan.
10:5, 6.
Lesson 4—Power and Speed
of the Angels
How does the psalmist refer to the
power of angels? Ps. 103:20. How
was this power illustrated in the de-
liverance of Peter from prison? Acts
5:17-19. How does Ezekiel describe
the movements of angels? Ezek. 1:14.
What is one example of the swiftness
with which angels can come to man's
help? Dan. 9:21.
L45
]
Lesson 5—Guardian Angels
Who stands before God in behalf
of His little ones? Matt. 18:10. What
evidence have we that the same care
is over all God's children? Job 1:6-12;
Ps. 91:11, 12.
Lesson 6—Angels and the Judgment
What vision of the judgment was
given to John the revelator? Rev.
20:11-15. What indicates that an an-
gel keeps the record of our lives? Eccl.
5:6. Before whom will the name of
the overcomer be confessed? Rev. 3:5.
Lesson 7—Angels Agents in
Divine Revelation
Whom did God send to communi-
cate His message to Daniel? Dan. 9:
21, 22. Name some other instances of
divine revelation through angels. Gen.
22:11, 12; Judges 6:11, 12; Luke 1:
11-18, 26-35. What should be our at-
titude toward these heavenly messen-
gers? Rev. 22:8, 9.
Lesson 8—Angel Ministry to Men
How did Abraham entertain "an-
gels unawares"? Gen. 18:1-8. What
ministry did angels perform in behalf
of Abraham and Lot? Gen. 19:15-24.
Lesson 9—Angel Ministry to
Men (Continued)
At Bethel what vision appeared to
Jacob? Gen. 28:10-15. How did an
angel minister to Elijah? 1 Kings 19:
5-8. What experience shows that God
works through angels to influence un-
believers? Dan. 10:13.
Lesson 10—Angel Ministry to Jesus
How did angels minister to Jesus in
the hour of His agony? Luke 22:39-
44. What part did an angel play at
the resurrection of Jesus? Matt. 28:
1-7. What ministry did angels per-
form at the ascension of Christ? Acts
1:9-11.
Lesson 11—Angel Ministry to the
Apostles
How did an angel minister to Peter
and John? Acts 5:17-20. How did an
angel direct Philip? Acts 8:26-30.
What experience did Cornelius have
that led to his conversion? Acts 10:7,
8, 44-48.
Lesson 12—Angels in the Final
Gospel Work
To whom are the angels of God
sent forth to minister? Heb. 1:14. In
the last warning message to mankind
who are represented as leading God's
children? Rev. 14:6-8; 18:1, 2. What
part will angels act in the sealing of
the saints? Ezek. 9:1-11; Rev. 7:4.
Lesson 13—Angels in the World Harvest
In the harvest at the end of the
world what work will the angels do?
Matt. 13:37-42, 47-49. At Christ's ap-
pearing what does He send the angels
to do? Matt. 24:30, 31. How does the
revelator describe the work of angels
at the time of harvest? Rev.
14:14-20.
The senior "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" is published in
the following foreign languages: Bohemian, Danish-Norwegian,
German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Russian, Serbian, Slovakian,
Spanish, Swedish, Ukrainian, and Yugoslavian. Write to the Inter-
national Branch of the Pacific Press at Brookfield, Illinois, for any
of these quarterlies for the strangers within your gates.
[46]
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
December 24, 1955
This quarter the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering goes to two
interesting fields- that we do not hear as much about as we do of some other
parts of the world. These are two mission fields of the Southern European
Division—the island of Madagascar, and Portuguese East Africa. The Gen-
eral Conference, through the Southern European Division, has bought 2,50o
acres of good land twelve miles from the railroad near Vila Pery in Portu-
guese East Africa in order to establish a new mission station. We have pros-
pects of a good evangelistic work among the natives and also among the
large white population. There are no other missions in the locality. We must
build a school, a church, a dispensary, and houses for missionary families.
Our first secular work will be farming, and for this we need agricultural
implements. It is to help meet these needs that part of the overflow will be
used at the end of the fourth quarter.
The rest of the overflow will go to Madagascar to help establish a new
mission station at Tamatave. The main thing about this mission station will
be a training school where workers can be trained to work for their own peo-
ple. These far-distant fields are looking to Sabbath-school members around
the world to bring a real Christmas offering on December 24. Let us not dis-
appoint them.
LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER, 1956
Sabbath-school members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for the
first quarter of 1956 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson.
The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Lessons From the Gospel Prophet," the first of a
two-quarter series of lessons on the book of Isaiah. The title of the first lesson is "God's
Arraignment of Israel." The Memory Verse is Isaiah 1:18. The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Isa. 1:2.
Ques. 2. Isa. 1:3.
Ques. 3. Isa. 1:4.
Ques. 4. Isa. 1:5, first part.
Ques. 5. Isa. 1:5, last part, 6.
Ques. 6. Isa. 1:7, 8.
Ques. 7. Isa. 1:9.
Ques. 8. Isa. 1:10-12.
Ques. 9. Isa. 1:13-15.
Ques. 10. Isa. 1:16-17.
Ques. 11. Isa. 1:18.
Ques. 12. Isa. 1:19, 20.
Ques. 13. Isa. 1:21-25.
Ques. 14. Isa. 1:26, 27.
[ 47 ]
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